Prompt 10

I believe the recurring theme of drugs and addiction is an interesting topic to explore in Gibson’s Neuromancer. There are several instances in which drugs are used in the novel, and each supports arguments and ideas surrounding the topic. In the beginning of the novel, we see Case, addicted to drugs, taking things that are the futuristic equivalent to cocaine and methamphetamines. This indicates his disregard for his physical body, and perhaps his desire to escape from it. This escape may manifest itself in a sort of suicide, Case dying because of his drug addiction. However, this does not come about, as Molly and Armitage find him. Armitage gives him a new pancreas and liver, which as well as keep him alive physically deny him the ability to get high. This gives Case a lack of control over his own body, which he formerly used to choose what sensations it could feel. Instead of break him of the addiction through his mind, Armitage takes a more direct route; instead of empowering Case, it lessens the mental power he has via physical power to get high. Another interesting example of drugs and addiction in Neuromancer is the scene in which Riviera and Case discuss their differing ways to get high. Riviera’s method is theatrical, basic, and painful, using a hypodermic needle. Case simply swallows an ‘octagon’; some form of pill. While both are interested in getting high, Riviera shows that he is interested in the physical sensations, good and bad, of getting high, while Case looks for a painless numbing of his body. This indicates the different perspectives of the characters, and perhaps how they see their bodies; Case continues to show a desire for absolute abandonment of the body.