I think this is partially because we see these issues exclusively through Leonard, and Quick’s focus is on developing him as a character and building his story. My snap judgment after reading was that abuse, neglect, depression, suicide, and murder are explored at length, but perhaps without too much depth. His troubled past, which unfolds over the course of the book, leaves a trail of the themes at work in the text. This is no “case-of-the-week” psychopath Leonard is fascinating. However, Leonard demonstrates that’s he’s capable of empathy: in his relationship with his neighbor Walt, in the way he speculates about his favorite teacher’s private life, and even in his failed attempt to apologize to his English teacher after they argue. Homicidal and suicidal, Leonard impulsively cuts his long hair and leaves the clippings in his refrigerator, actions that are clearly indicative of unstable behavior. But it’s compelling because he has depth and nuance. It’s a difficult place to be, an uncomfortable place, filled with pain and anger. We’re in his head, living every moment of what he intends to be his last day on earth. Written in first person present, the titular Leonard Peacock is THE driving force of the novel.
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