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Demon’s mother, whose name is never revealed, represents the tragic consequences of systemic neglect and societal failure. Her anonymity in the text underscores the erasure of individuals like her—women caught in the grip of poverty and addiction who are often reduced to statistics or stereotypes. By leaving her unnamed, the novel invites readers to focus on the larger forces shaping her life rather than reducing her to a singular identity. She becomes a stand-in for countless women who have been failed by the systems meant to protect them.
Her addiction is not portrayed as a moral failing but as a product of systemic exploitation. The novel critiques the pharmaceutical industry’s role in flooding Appalachia with opioids, framing her addiction as a symptom of a larger crisis inflicted on vulnerable communities. June’s observation that the opioid crisis was “done to them” underscores this point, highlighting how Demon’s mother’s life was shaped by forces beyond her control.
Despite her struggles, her love for Demon is evident, even if expressed imperfectly. Her small acts of care and long stint of sobriety demonstrate that she wanted to be a good mother to Demon. However, her addiction often overshadows these moments, leaving Demon to grapple with feelings of abandonment and resentment. Her inability to shield Demon from Stoner’s abuse underscores the recurring theme that adults living under flawed systems can fail the children in their care, even with the best of intentions.
