In the philosophical novel The Fall by Albert Camus, power is one of the main themes that comprises the novel and guides the life of the main character, Jean-Baptiste Clamence. For Jean-Baptiste, having power over others is a necessity and a key component of how he leads his life. The main way Jean-Baptiste feels power over others is when he judges them. It also ties power to being physically above someone, such as on top of a mountain, and taking a God-like position of authority over others. The main way Jean-Baptiste exerts his need for power over others is by judging them. He does this in various ways, but the motivation behind it is that he himself doesn't want to be judged. However, he believes that if he judges himself first, it gives him the right to do the same to others without it being wrong. He also seems to believe that others will not be able to judge him if he judges himself before them. This reasoning goes on to explain why he calls himself a judge-penitent. He labels himself this way so that he can talk about his sins and wrongdoings...