The notion of a mind divided between nihilistic passivism and absolutist vigilantism, between not caring at all and caring to the point of violent fanaticism, is a fascinating one. Moore explored this idea, more expansively and effectively, with the character of Rorschach. Like Mr. Davis here, Walter Kovacs underwent a mental breakdown in the face of cruel tragedy and dealt with his inner conflict by adopting separate personae for each side.

The main difference is that Davis, unlike Rorschach, seems to understand in the end that there is a way out of such a destructive existential conflict. That way is accepting, and extending, compassion.