Violence
One of the most prominent themes in Gun Monkeys is violence. The novel is set in a world of organized crime, where violence is an ever-present reality. Characters are constantly threatened and attacked, and the book is filled with gunfights, chases, and brutal beatings. Violence is depicted not only as a survival tool but also as a form of entertainment and pleasure for some characters. Through graphic and intense descriptions of violence, Gischler portrays the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the criminal underworld.
Loyalty
Another critical theme in Gun Monkeys is loyalty. The characters in the novel are often forced to choose between their commitment to their friends and their self-interest. Swift, the protagonist, is torn between his loyalty to his friend, the drug-addicted gunman, and his desire to escape the dangerous situation. The theme of loyalty is also explored through the relationship between the characters and their criminal organizations, with some characters questioning the loyalty of their fellow members. Gischler uses the theme of loyalty to add complexity to his characters, making them more relatable and human.
Corruption
The theme of corruption is also central to Gun Monkeys. The novel depicts a world where corruption is rampant, and the characters constantly deal with corrupt police officers, politicians, and business people. The characters are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they want, even if it means resorting to bribery, extortion, and blackmail. The theme of corruption is used to show the extent to which the characters are willing to go to get what they want and expose the flaws in the criminal justice system.
