When The Killing's Done By T. Coraghessan Boyle

Nature is an ever-changing system that we rely upon for the sake of our survival. We utilize its resources to benefit us in any way possible, including shelter, technological improvements, and domesticating plants and animals. With that being said, there is an ethical dilemma presented by our use of the land. Do we have the right to change the environment to benefit ourselves, or should we let nature run its own course and care for the land? The novel “When the Killing’s Done” by T. Coraghessan Boyle demonstrates this ethical dilemma through its main characters, Alma and Dave. Alma holds a strong commitment to removing invasive species from the lands of which they are inhabiting while Dave is against the killing of the creatures as he believes everything has a right to life. In

One of his highlights in this rescue mission is trying to feed the rats on the island Vitamin K, which would in turn help them to survive and multiply. This did not go over so well for him, but we can see that he intends to help the invasive species repopulate and grow as freely as they would in their natural habitats. Dave’s drive comes not from a desire to improve the environment, but more from his hatred of humans. Due to the nature of his death, readers can infer that the author has views that align less with Dave and more with Alma, the so-called murder in Dave’s eyes. While Dave does not have the best motives, I do see why he is taking this approach to “save” the island. He feels that the murder of animals is unjust and feels the need to protect them. More context is given when Dave says, “Maybe he and Wilson can get out in advance of the poisoners, give the rats a head start. Save them. Rescue them. Champion them.” Readers may read this and believe that he is committing these actions for the greater good, but I think Dave is presenting signs of a savior complex and flat-out