In Richard Bachman's "The Running Man," the protagonist conveys a message filled with tension and urgency. He holds a dangerous amount of explosive material in his coat pocket, referred to as “black Irish.” The sheer quantity mentioned, twelve pounds, suggests that this explosive has devastating power, capable of destruction over a significant radius and even threatening nearby jet fuel storage, highlighting the high stakes of the situation.

The protagonist's tone emphasizes the dire consequences of non-compliance with his commands. This situation not only reflects his desperation but also the lengths to which he will go to assert control or achieve his objectives, underscoring themes of power, fear, and survival that permeate the narrative. The quote serves as a critical moment, illustrating the intensity of conflict present throughout the book.