The phrase embodies a specific type of literary work, often falling under the thriller or suspense genre, where characters grapple with manipulation, blame-shifting, and the consequences of actions influenced by external forces. An example would be a narrative focusing on a protagonist whose life unravels due to the machinations of another, leading them to utter the titular sentiment, whether literally or thematically, as they react to the imposed circumstances.
Its significance lies in exploring complex themes of responsibility, agency, and the blurred lines between victimhood and culpability. It delves into the psychological impact of manipulation and the societal factors that contribute to such dynamics. Historically, similar themes have resonated in classic literature, but this phrasing captures a contemporary sensibility, reflecting modern anxieties about control and accountability in interpersonal relationships and broader social contexts.
