Framework/Motifs of Neuromancer

“You have fifteen toxin sacs bonded to the lining of various main arteries, Case. They’re dissolving…Do the job and I can inject you with an enzyme that will dissolve the bond without opening the sacs….So you see, Case, you need us.” (45-46)

In Gibson’s novel, Neuromancer, he uses the framework of dependence in order to get his characters to conform and obey. For example, in this passage we see Armitage forcing Case to join him by creating an illusion that Case “needs” him in order to survive due to the “toxin” that was implanted in Case. However, no one knows for sure whether or not there is indeed a “toxin” that will cause Case’s arteries to dissolve or not, it is all based solely on Armitage’s words. Because of this tactic of dependence, it leaves Case with no choice but to believe what Armitage said. As we read on in the novel, we will see that this theme of dependency will occur over and over again, causing each characters to obey the orders of others simply because they have to or else they will die.
Besides that, a motif that has been occurring through these few chapters is Wintermute. On page 98 Gibson wrote, “Wintermute, Case. It’s time we talk.” This quote foreshadows that outcome of the novel that whatever happens from now on will involve Wintermute. Not only that, but on page 110 we also find out that the Zion are helping Case and Molly out, simply because Wintermute told them to. As readers, we can already make an assumption that Wintermute will play a vital role in the chapters to come and that this Wintermute will continue to involve Case and Molly until the end of the novel. Additionally, that Case and Molly will be able to find out what Wintermute really is, whether it is an AI or not.