personal-agency
Ari's efforts to control her party and social environment demonstrate her struggle for autonomy and influence despite external constraints.
2 chapters across 2 books
Cyteen (1988)C.J. Cherryh
In this chapter, Ari expresses her reluctance and frustration about having a party, particularly disliking the other kids and the restrictions imposed by her uncle Denys. Despite initial tensions and awkwardness among the guests, Ari manages to take control of the situation, engaging with the adults and navigating complex social dynamics to ensure the party is enjoyable. The chapter highlights Ari's intelligence, social awareness, and determination to assert her own agency within a constrained environment.
The Sparrow (1996)Mary Doria Russell
In this chapter, Jimmy Quinn is confronted by Peggy Soong about his potential cooperation with a 'vulture' AI program at the Arecibo Radio Telescope, which threatens their jobs. The conversation reveals tensions between individual compliance and collective resistance, as Peggy urges Jimmy to stand against the system, while Jimmy struggles with his ingrained habit of obedience and desire for job security.