There is a lot of fear in Reese's life. It seems to come at him from all sides, thanks to the threat of violence from employees at Progress, his fellow inmates, and even his own father, who beat him before he was imprisoned. Fear is a big part of Reese's current existence in Lockdown, but it also figures into his thoughts about the future; he constantly worries about what's waiting for him when he gets home. The fear that haunts him most, however, is the possibility that he'll never be truly free, instead cycling in and out of prisons forever. Is that enough to scare him straight? Or will it weigh him down so much that he's doomed to mess up again?
Questions About Fear
- Why do you think Toon is so afraid to disappoint his parents? Why does he seem to disappoint them anyway?
- Which place do you think is more frightening in Reese's world: the inside (as in being locked up) or the outside world? Explain your answer.
- Some dude once said, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Do you think this applies in Reese's world? Explain your answer.
Chew on This
In Lockdown, fear is a negative emotion. It makes Reese feel depressed and hopeless.
In Lockdown, fear is a positive emotion. It motivates Reese to behave and helps him relate with other characters.