Sexuality

Throughout the narrative, sexuality represents connection - primarily physical, but in the mind and experience of protagonist Fred Lemish and a few others, it also represents emotional connection. In that sense, it is the primary metaphoric vehicle through which the narrative explores its central thematic interest in the power and value of connection.

Sado-Masochism

Sado-masochism, or the experience of gaining pleasure through the exchange of pain, manifests throughout the narrative as the key evocation of its thematic interest in the achievement of identity through degradation. Several characters, including the primary love interest of protagonist Fred Lemish, seem to connect with fundamental personal truths in the aftermath, or during the process of, sado-masochistic practice. It also can be seen as evoking the experience of male homosexuals perpetuating the self-internalization of hatred practiced on them by society.

Black Leather Clothing and Accessories

The so-called "fetish" gear worn by...