Violence

In Elmet, violence is a catalyst of events and the raw power that influences others. The ability to defend oneself or to inflict harm determines the fates of the characters in the novel. The power to wield violence can either be granted by financial control or abilities granted by nature. Mr Price and Daddy (John Smythe) both rely on violence for their financial and personal gain. Throughout the novel, they engage in a dangerous battle for ownership of the land and risk their own lives and bodies for it. The violence is perpetuated until one great act of total annihilation stops the cycle.

Daddy is defined by violence, and his actions are compelled by the urge to fight. Vivien says that violence defines Daddy and that he seeks violence as a sort of need or urge. He needs violence in the same way that a whale...