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punish you for believing both” (191). The ego finally achieves balance and the monster, as both
the id and superego, is able to rest.
Ness’s novel illustrates the importance of experiencing each stage of grief by using the
theories of Freud to create a physical representation of Conor’s psyche. The monster is more than
just a mythical being; it is the embodiment of Conor’s unconscious. Having been awakened by
Conor’s inability to effectively process his grief, the monster assumes the qualities of the id and
the superego in order to help Conor achieve balance. As a result of the monster’s interference,
Conor is able to acknowledge the truth of his mother’s condition while simultaneously letting her
go and allowing himself the opportunity to experience healing.
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