In her book "For the Birds," Angela Roquet explores the complexities of life through the lens of performance and illusion. The quote from Paul Beatty, "If all the world's a stage, I want to operate the trap door," captures the desire for control and the power to influence the narrative. It suggests that while life presents itself as a theatrical performance, there are those who seek to manipulate the scenes from behind the curtain.

This notion reflects a deeper commentary on the roles individuals play in society and their yearning for agency. Roquet weaves this theme throughout her narrative, illustrating how characters navigate their existence and the choices they make that can alter their circumstances. The desire to operate the trap door symbolizes a wish to escape or redirect the course of events, emphasizing the intricacies of human experience and the pursuit of freedom in a scripted world.