Gone

Many genres include superheroes, those who are defined as having extraordinary, supernatural abilities and performing heroic actions. Spider-Man, Captain America, Wonder Woman, and others fit this definition, as they fight for morally good choices, such as defending the innocent. Sam and many other characters have supernatural abilities, but they don’t fit the standard expectations of superheroes. Although many superhero backstories involve a tragic past, Sam has experienced fewer traumatic events. His father left him when he was very young, which didn’t affect him; he has a loving mother and stable life. Besides harming his stepfather Tom with his powers, Sam doesn’t have a tragic backstory.

In contrast to many rich superheroes with advanced technology and resources, Sam doesn’t have those luxuries. In fact, he and everyone else must survive in the dystopian, isolated FAYZ with few resources.

Unlike the superhero standard, Sam denies his power. He doesn’t want attention or to be chosen as a leader. Instead, Sam keeps his powers a secret, which can be a typical choice for gifted heroes, but Sam subverts the expectations by also being afraid of his powers. The theme of fear runs deep in Sam’s avoidance of using his powers. He fears he will injure others rather than protect them or that his powers will change him into a corrupted, power-hungry force he won’t recognize.

Sam also evades conflict, particularly physical altercations. He ignores bullies and their insults, Caine’s demands, and those who try to control him by running away. Most superheroes choose to fight, but Sam doesn’t take violence lightly. He avoids war or using his powers until he absolutely must, such as battling coyotes when they attack his friends. The stakes need to be life or death for Sam to take action. He is also not excited to physically fight since he knows the war will have casualties and doesn’t want to create child soldiers. Sam is not an active force, instead passively avoiding the arising conflicts until he must deal with them.

The author creates a dystopian setting that changes the characters’ lives and where the effects of FAYZ are out of Sam’s control. By using unique plot elements and twists, Grant overthrows old notions of superheroes with plot elements such as internal conflicts rather than external (Sam denying his power and leadership duties), a setting they cannot destroy (the FAYZ), an abstract foe they can’t defeat (the Darkness), a young age group (no one older than 14), inclusivity of everyone fighting (powerless individuals), and infighting of superheroes (both Sam and Caine’s armies have those with powers and those without).

Though he defies most superhero tropes, Sam fits the morality category. He upholds values of viewing life as sacred, being fair to all, and inclusivity. He cares about everyone, displaying a helping heart. Sam and Caine could also fit the archetypal “evil twin” trope, though they’re not identical twins and didn’t grow up together.