Love vs. Lust: Themes in Neuromancer

The most interesting framework to me throughout this novel so far is Case’s relationship with Linda in comparison to Molly, which is love versus lust. Although he has a sexual relationship with Molly, whenever true emotions come into play regarding women, he flashes on Linda. Such is the case on page 114 where he goes into an arcade in Ninsei and finds Linda and gives her a kiss. The fact that he kisses her is significant in that it is a sensual action rather than lustful. The passage ends with him snapping out of the vision: “I had a cigarette, a girl, and a place to sleep” (115). He can have a cigarette, a girl and a place to sleep any night with Molly but when its with Linda, it’s a different story. He seems to appreciate it significantly more. The difference is demonstrated on page 121 where he is laying in bed, this time with Molly, while smoking a cigarette. But rather than appreciating the moment, he lays there wondering if Deane killed Linda and upon deciding to go to sleep he: “stubbed the Yeheyuan out in a bedside ashtray after his third puff, rolled away from Molly, and tried to sleep” (121). If he were with Linda, he would have enjoyed the cigarette and probably curled up next to her upon trying to sleep rather than turning away. Such subtle body movements demonstrate to the reader the significant difference in his relationship with Linda (love) and his relationship with Molly (lust).