Beartown

The secrets in Beartown are often most psychologically challenging to those who attempt to keep them. It is not until late in the book that the reader learns of Benji’s homosexuality, because it is something that Benji keeps secret. The bass player tells him that big secrets make small men, meaning that to keep a significant secret—as long as it pertains to one’s identity—is to limit one’s options for a fulfilling life. Kevin’s mother spends much of the final portion of the book keeping the secret that she believes her son is guilty of rape. Amat tries to keep the secret of what he saw.

Kira keeps the secret that she turned down a promotion because while it would have led to more fulfilling work, it also would have meant less time with her family. Ana rarely lets anyone see how damaged she is by her mother’s abandonment. Peter rarely shows that he is insecure because his wife knows how to fight and he has no instinct for confrontation or combat. Bobo talks a lot about his conquests with women, but he is a virgin.

Without secrets, there is less potential for shame. Because nearly every character has something to hide—at least, in their own perception—Beartown is rife with shame.