...of power

She watches him from within. We're all watching him. It's one thing we can really do, and it's not for nothing: if he were to falter, fail or die, what would become of us? No wonder he's like a boot, hard on the outside, giving shape to a pulp of tenderfoot. That's just a wish. I've been watching him for sometime and he's given no evidence, of softness.

But watch out, Commander, I tell him in my head. I've got my eye on you. One false move and I'm dead. Still, it must be hell to be a man, like that.

It must be fine.

It must be hell.

It must be very silent.

[The Handmaid's Tale, Atwood, M.]