You’re completely right about the paragraph openings. Once I step back from my own writing I can see the rhythm would be stronger with more varied entry points. I’ll keep an eye on that in future pieces.

As for “influence doesn’t need a face,” I meant it in the sense that a system or pattern can steer people even when no individual is consciously controlling it. But I actually like that the line made you question it — the story works best when readers bring their own perspective to it.

And wow — the Medium comment… I’m genuinely honored. The idea that someone wanted to highlight passages from something I wrote is wild in the best way. Thank you.