In Diary of an Oxygen Thief, the narrator slowly begins to realize how empty his life feels after years of hurting others, of hurting girls. The novel shows that even when someone thinks they’re in control, their actions can eventually leave them feeling alone and emotionally disconnected. The narrator admits,
I like hurting girls. Mentally, not physically.
(p. 1).
The author uses first-person narration and a very clear and direct tone to show the narrator’s mindset. Because the narrator openly admits this at the beginning of the book, readers immediately see how he once viewed emotional pain as something almost entertaining or powerful. However, as the story continues, he starts realizing that this way of living actually left him feeling empty and unable to form real connections. This moment makes the reader reflect on how hurting others for control or for how the narrator calls it “revenge”, can eventually lead to guilt and isolation. This highlights the theme of self-awarness and the consequences pf toxic relations.