The character in "Rabbit, Run" grapples with his compulsion to swear, reflecting on its purpose and questioning his motivations. He knows that his language may serve to create distance between himself and others, yet is also aware of an unsettling attraction pulling him closer to another man. This inner conflict highlights his struggle with identity and relationships.

As he contemplates the implications of his words, he begins to recognize that his swearing could be a barrier meant to keep emotional connections at bay. The tension within him represents a deeper struggle with vulnerability and the desire for intimacy, illustrating a complex dynamic in his interactions and sense of self.