economic-exploitation

The chapter follows Argenis, a Dominican man working at a call center where he pretends to have psychic powers to take calls from the United States. Struggling with addiction, debt, and disillusionment with his artistic aspirations, Argenis reflects on his past education and current life hardships, including his complicated relationships and the oppressive environment of his workplace. The narrative reveals his internal conflicts, social marginalization, and the contrast between his artistic dreams and harsh realities.

The chapter follows the narrator and Gwen as they confront an intruder named Bill, whose suspicious behavior and criminal background reveal the dangerous and marginalized world of nightwalkers. Subsequently, they face the harsh and arbitrary authority of the Golden Rule habitat's Manager, who enforces forced relocations and financial exploitation without empathy or recourse. The narrative exposes systemic bureaucratic oppression, economic injustice, and the absolute power wielded by private corporate management over residents' lives.

Part Two of 'City of Thorns' details the complex political and social dynamics surrounding the Dadaab refugee camps and the broader Somali conflict. It covers international interventions, local militia recruitment, the role of refugees in camp management, and the economic and security challenges faced by both refugees and host communities. The chapter also highlights issues of corruption, military actions, and the precarious humanitarian situation exacerbated by funding shortfalls.