Caught Up

Early in the novel, Junior sustains a wound to his side that periodically bleeds during intense, physical situations, including sex. He also sustains a taser wound at Lauren’s hands. She also notes that his abdomen is covered with the scars of prior encounters. These wounds collectively act as a symbol for the physical and emotional toll of his work in the mafia, implying that his psyche and soul are sustaining similarly grievous forms of damage.

As he considers his experience with the mafia, Junior notes that his father sends the brothers to do the real work rather than taking care of it himself, and as the brothers collect new injuries and scars, these wounds represent the sacrifices that they all make for the family. As Junior’s mafia membership persists, he grows angrier and more disconnected from humanity. The wounds that he hides under his clothes therefore mirror the wounds to his psyche that he must hide from the world.

Lauren’s taser is her weapon of choice. She uses it to threaten Alec, attack Junior, and knock Nico Sr. away from Junior during the scuffle that ensues in the novel’s climax. In each instance, Lauren faces off against a large, violent man, but the taser evens the playing field and allows her to defend herself despite her smaller size.