Patrick Batemans Obsessions in American Psycho: A Deep Dive

H1: Patrick Bateman's Obsessions in American Psycho

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Patrick Bateman, the central character of American Psycho, is often examined through the lens of his narcissistic personality, which manifests in several powerful obsessions. Through a scrutiny of his actions and internal monologue, it becomes clear that his most dominant obsession is his appearance, as it deeply intertwines with his identity and self-definition.

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Appearance as the Foundation of Identity

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In American Psycho, Bateman is preoccupied with his appearance to a degree that it defines his entire existence. His obsession with his image is not merely superficial; it is an extension of his narcissistic identity. Bateman bases his self-worth and status on his appearance, as he sees himself through the lens of societal expectations and the false personas he presents to the world.

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The film's opening dialogue reveals Bateman's struggle with his true self, hidden behind a facade:

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“There is an idea of a Patrick Bateman. Some kind of abstraction. But there is no real me. Only an entity. Something illusory. And though I can hide my cold gaze and you can shake my hand and feel flesh gripping yours and maybe you can even sense our lifestyles are probably comparable I simply am not there.”

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This quote encapsulates the core of Bateman's issue, highlighting how he conceals his true self and identity. His identity is projected and constructed based on societal norms and superficial beauty standards, rather than genuine personal characteristics.

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Shallow and Meaningless Life

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Monday, September 17, 1989, marks a pivotal moment for Bateman, as he realizes that his life is hollow and devoid of meaning. His inability to confront his true self leads to a deep existential crisis. The sentence, "There is no true me. Only an entity," underscores his experience of being a mere projection without a genuine core.

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Bateman's life is marked by a shallow and meaningless existence. He engages in extravagant and wasteful behavior, often fueled by the desire to maintain his image. His weekends are filled with lavish parties, where he interacts with socialites, but these encounters only serve to reinforce his facade and mask his inner turmoil. This superficial existence pushes him further away from understanding his true self.

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Erratic Behavior and Psychological Abnormality

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As Bateman's obsession with appearance and his shallow existence intensify, his behavior becomes increasingly erratic and psychologically abnormal. His actions are driven by a sense of emptiness and a desire to fill the void he perceives in himself. This leads to a series of destructive and violent incidents, which serve as a manifestation of his inner turmoil and psychological disorder.

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Bateman's violent act against his coworker at the accounting firm is a turning point that reflects the culmination of his obsessive behavior. This act is not just an isolated incident but a symbolic representation of his inner conflict. It signifies a break from his facade and a step towards an understanding of his true self, albeit through a distorted and destructive lens.

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The film's ending is particularly poignant, as it shows Bateman's disconnection from his true self. The split-screen effect in the closing scenes emphasizes the duality of his personality and the disconnect between his external and internal selves. This scene leaves audiences with a sense of ambiguity and a hauntingawareness of the destructive potential of a fragmented identity.

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Conclusion

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Patrick Bateman's obsessions in American Psycho are deeply rooted in his narcissistic personality. His obsession with his appearance, his shallow and meaningless life, and his psychologically abnormal behavior all stem from a fundamental struggle with his true self. By examining these aspects, we gain a deeper understanding of Bateman's character and the societal pressures that contribute to his psychological disorder.

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Through American Psycho, the film not only critiques the superficiality of modern society but also highlights the importance of self-awareness and the dangers of concealing the true self behind a facade.

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H2: Related Keywords:

r r r Narcissistic Personalityr Psychoanalytic Criticismr Societal Pressuresr