THE RISE OF CARTEL POWER AND ITS IMPACT ON SOCIETY: AN ANALYSIS OF VIOLENCE, KIDNAPPINGS, AND MURDERS IN FEAR IS JUST A WORD

Abstract

The aim of present study is to explore the societal impact of cartel-driven violence as portrayed in the novel Fear Is Just a Word (2023). It discusses how drug cartels, once small-scale criminal groups, have transformed into transnational organizations wielding significant socio-political influence. The analysis focuses on the strategic use of violence, kidnappings, and murders by cartels to maintain dominance and instill fear within communities and the character in the novel. Using a qualitative research approach, the study explores the psychological and emotional toll of cartel violence on individuals and societies. It dives into concepts of resilience and survival, analyzing how characters in the novel navigate life under constant threat. The research also draws parallels between the fictional representation of cartel power and its real-world implications and the study incorporate insights from secondary literature on organized crime to contextualize the novel’s narrative. By connecting fiction with real-world issues, the research underscores the role of storytelling in understanding and addressing the pervasive challenges posed by organized crime. This work contributes to academic discussions on crime literature, societal resilience, and the psychological effects of violence, offering meaningful perspectives for scholars, policymakers, and readers alike