How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Murder, after all, has exhilaration within it […] from possessing such strength. Besides, murder offers the promise of vast relief. It is never unisexual. (1.12)
This quote establishes one of the novel's chief themes: Violence and sexuality are more connected than we'd like to admit. For Rojack, inflicting violence makes him feel powerful and strong, and his sexual conquests give him a similar rush. Ultimately, however, neither leaves him fulfilled.
Quote #2
I had the mental image I was pushing my shoulder against an enormous door which would give inch by inch to the effort. (1.159)
It's almost as if Rojack is sealing up all of the anger and resentment he's felt toward Deborah over the course of their marriage. It's a rather naïve mindset: He thinks that violence will make all of his problems disappear.
Quote #3
I opened my eyes. I was weary with a most honorable fatigue, and my flesh seemed new. I had not felt so nice since I was twelve. (1.160)
In a disturbing twist, Rojack feels rejuvenated after killing Deborah. This might just be us, but we don't think anyone would describe anything Rojack just did as "honorable." Regardless, we're beginning to see that Rojack likes the feeling he gets when he inflicts violence—and that means that there's surely more violence to come.