Govier charts the sado-masochistic give and take with all the precision of a military historian mapping the battle of Appomattox. To me, the most frightening thing is that it's hidden. She traces his complicated reasoning. That kind of intricate analysis is the essence of Govier's talent. For every vile little remark, there's a roadmap that leads to it, and those twisting roads are of immense interest.
Life is complicated.
There isn't enough danger in Canada, the late poet Elizabeth Smart once told Govier. But human beings create their danger, by working 18 hours a day at their jobs or making enemies of the people at their office. Govier makes sure she stays connected with reality.