+4 votes
in Psychopathy and Psychopaths by (5.1k points)
edited by

Your answer

Your name to display (optional):
Privacy: Your email address will only be used for sending these notifications.
+2 votes
by (5.6k points)

In the novel "American Psycho" by Bret Easton Ellis and the film adaptation directed by Mary Harron, there is a scene where Patrick Bateman, the main character, brings his bloody laundry to a Chinese laundry. The scene is meant to depict Bateman's psychotic and delusional state of mind, where he believes he can commit heinous crimes and get away with them due to his privileged and narcissistic view of the world.

There are a few possible interpretations for why Bateman brings his bloody laundry to a Chinese laundry:

  1. Delusional Thinking: Patrick Bateman's mental state is deeply disturbed, and he is suffering from delusions of grandeur. He believes he is above the law and that his wealth and social status will protect him from any consequences, even for his violent actions. In his warped mind, he thinks that taking his bloodstained clothing to a Chinese laundry will not raise suspicion or result in any meaningful investigation.

  2. Racial Prejudice: The choice of a Chinese laundry could also be a reflection of Bateman's racist and xenophobic tendencies. He may hold prejudiced views and believe that the people running the Chinese laundry are less likely to report suspicious activities to the authorities.

  3. Mockery of Cultural Stereotypes: The scene might also be a commentary on cultural stereotypes and the absurdity of Bateman's thinking. It could be a satirical portrayal of how someone like Bateman, who is detached from reality, perceives and interacts with people from different backgrounds.

  4. Lack of Empathy: Patrick Bateman lacks empathy and genuine connections with others, including those from different cultural backgrounds. Bringing his bloody laundry to a Chinese laundry without concern for the potential consequences demonstrates his complete disregard for others' well-being or the impact of his actions.

It's essential to remember that "American Psycho" is a work of fiction, and Patrick Bateman's actions and motivations are meant to depict a deeply disturbed and violent character. The scene at the Chinese laundry is just one example of his erratic and psychopathic behavior, which serves as a critique of the shallowness and excesses of 1980s American society and the moral decay of its upper class.

Welcome to Mindwellnessforum where you can ask questions about reationships and mental health
...