Beckett portrays Nigel's split personality - an inconspicuous loner yearning for human contact versus a brutal sadist who unleashes his darkest impulses on helpless victims. The story confronts readers with questions about the animal nature within every human.

Nigel is trapped in his own world, unable to build genuine relationships. His loneliness is amplified by the rejection he faces from his environment, highlighting the devastating effects of social isolation on human psychology.

The story takes place in an apparently normal setting that becomes increasingly overshadowed by Nigel's morbid secrets. The contrast between everyday banality and brutal acts creates an oppressive atmosphere, showing evil often lurks where least expected.