This Boy's Life Power and Powerlessness Quotes

This is a direct connection between power and guns for Jack: not using the gun, but just knowing that he can. It's kind of scary, like he could have been a rooftop sniper if he hadn't discovered writing.

Oooh, here's a way to exercise power when you don't have any. Jack doesn't draw attention to it later, but it's clear that he applies this in multiple situations where he feels helpless.

Ah, sweet co-dependence. Mom gives Jack a feeling of power because she herself is so powerless.