In "Between the World and Me," Ta-Nehisi Coates explores the concept of disembodiment, likening it to terrorism that influences and distorts the lives of individuals. This sense of disembodiment does not just happen randomly; its impact is intentional, creating an environment where people feel compelled to control their expressions and actions. Coates uses the metaphor of a dragon to illustrate how this pressure forces individuals, especially within marginalized communities, into extreme performances of ownership and restraint.

Coates reflects on how this phenomenon particularly affects middle-class black individuals, leading to aggressive passivity in their behavior. They find themselves navigating public spaces with extreme caution, showcasing their best manners, and keeping their hands hidden to avoid drawing attention. This careful demeanor symbolizes a deeper struggle against the external societal pressures that dictate their existence and survival, highlighting the heavy burden of living in a world that constantly threatens their identity and autonomy.