The Secret Battle of Evan Pao

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of bullying and racism.

In The Secret Battle of Evan Pao, Charlie Griggs’ car is a multifaceted symbol reflecting themes of How Prejudice Hurts People and Communities, The Struggle to Find Identity and Belonging When You’re Different, and personal transformation. The novel describes the car as “a low black car with flames painted on the sides […]. The car […] also had a skull and crossed knives painted on the doors with the words NO MERCY spelled out underneath” (17) presenting an aggressive and menacing exterior. Its loud, almost unnerving sound—“a low, menacing growl” (17)—echoes the anger and hostility that define Charlie’s worldview. The car is more than just a vehicle; it reflects Charlie’s internal struggles and his alienation from the community.

The car’s aggressive appearance and deafening noise symbolize Charlie’s prejudice and deep-rooted anger, particularly toward changes occurring in his town. The menacing imagery reflects his resistance to change and his role in perpetuating a cycle of hate. The town’s consideration of a noise ordinance to limit such disruptive sounds further isolates Charlie, marking him as an outsider and illustrating how he embodies the town’s undercurrent of prejudice.