The Cellar

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses abuse; rape, sexual exploitation, and sexual assault; death by suicide; abduction; and graphic violence.

“The club where the gig was being held was barely a two-minute walk from my house. It was a walk that I had done so many times I could make it there blindfolded.”

The narrative begins in Summer’s first-person perspective. While the inciting incident of the kidnapping occurs in the first chapter, the author employs significant irony in the brief exposition. Summer is confident she can get to the club without any conflict since the location is so close to home. Lightheartedly thinking she can make the trip blindfolded is hyperbole; with this figurative language, she emphasizes her familiarity with the neighborhood.

“You’re right, I am so sorry. We are a family. You’re my family, and I forgot that for a second. Please forgive what I said. I should have never doubted you.”

Violet’s (Jennifer’s) response to Clover after he threatens her with a knife is significant in several ways. First, it demonstrates how powerless Clover’s captives are. Next, it makes Summer wonder about the strange effect imprisonment seems to have on the other women: Might they genuinely appreciate this constructed “family,” or is it wholly a pretense for safety’s sake? This question introduces the theme of The Dynamics of Power and Control in Abusive Situations. Finally, Violet’s reaction foreshadows a later scene when Violet again acts out against Clover and then tries to beg forgiveness.