The novel explores subjects such as violence, innocence, identity, toxic masculinity, and intrinsic worth. The main characters Alex, Jockey, and Marta represent different parts of the spectrum of these aspects of a persona. Alex as the central character oscillates between good virtues and vices while trying to prove his virility and finding his identity. He is a victim of bullying in the hands of insensitive students such as Jockey who embodies the immoral and malicious antagonist. Alex is on a quest to find himself and fit in however the opportunity that presents itself for him is far from honorable. After his release from the juvenile detention center Jockey aims to terrorize Alex on the mean streets of the city. Alex is suspicious of this friendship considering Jockey harbors resentment towards him. However, he still gravitates towards this uncertain journey with an untrustworthy ‘friend’ to prove he is not in the bottom tier of the social hierarchy.
Accordingly, the story explores the loss of innocence into manhood and the struggle between right and wrong. Alex encounters several trials during this rough night that tests his courage, toughness, and grimness in this corrupt setting. He delves into both sides of the morality spectrum as he gradually abandons his virtuous self and trading it for an implacable and spiteful self. During the night he emulates the mean attitude of the mean streets and embodies a character akin to Jockey. He compromises his true self for a persona that he feels will better serve him in this cruel world.
As the protagonist, Alex undergoes a character arc that sees him assume a more macho attitude as an excuse to be at the top tier. However as fast as he assumes the persona, his rage and vengefulness push him into a place of clarity, as he comprehends their futility. The rough night offered a glimpse into the other side where his moral restrictions were blurred and consumed by iniquities. Nonetheless, the experience allows for the line between right and wrong to be redrawn with a new perspective of the workings of human nature and the world in general.
