Nicko M. De Guzman's 'Troll' highlights the moral implications of working as an internet troll by detailing the internal conflict of the protagonist, who knows that his work involves spreading fake news and defending unethical actions by influential individuals. Despite his awareness, he continues due to the material benefits, illustrating how economic pressures can lead people to compromise their morals . The story underscores how such activities propagate misinformation and negatively affect society, showing that knowledge of wrongdoing does not prevent participation when financial incentives are involved .

The protagonist continues working as a troll despite knowing the harm it causes because he is driven by economic necessity and the pursuit of material possessions, which he believes can alleviate his personal anxieties. This decision is influenced by a broader commentary on the socio-economic conditions that compel individuals to choose morally dubious jobs in exchange for financial stability . The narrative suggests that this choice is a reflection of the harsh economic realities many individuals face, where survival takes precedence over ethical considerations .

'Troll' is effective in communicating the ethical challenges faced by individuals in misinformation roles through its nuanced portrayal of the protagonist's internal conflict and the socio-economic pressures influencing him. By illustrating the repercussions on both personal and societal levels, the story highlights the moral ambiguity faced when financial necessity conflicts with ethical integrity. The protagonist's development offers a compelling narrative that challenges readers to consider the broader implications of such employment beyond immediate economic benefits, making it an engaging exploration of contemporary ethical issues .

'Troll' reflects larger societal issues by depicting how economic hardship can drive individuals to accept employment that compromises their ethics. The protagonist's decision to work as a troll, despite knowing the unethical nature of his tasks, underscores how society often forces vulnerable individuals to prioritize financial survival over ethical principles. This situation highlights the systemic problems related to employment options that exploit individuals' economic desperation, leading to a perpetuation of unethical practices for personal gain .

The protagonist's relationship with his mother is significant as it represents a source of pressure and expectation in 'Troll.' She desires for him to become a chef, which he rejects, reflecting his own conflict between personal desires and familial expectations. This relationship influences his decisions by adding an emotional burden that contributes to his need for financial independence and success, ultimately pushing him towards taking the troll job. It demonstrates how family dynamics can impact career choices, particularly when financial stability is prioritized .

In 'Troll,' the creation of multiple personas by the protagonist serves to explore his fragmented identity and internal conflict. These personas, such as Kiko, Jessy, and Romy, represent his attempt to make sense of his actions and their impact on his self-perception. By inventing these personalities, he seeks to rationalize his involvement in unethical practices and to manage the dissonance between his actions and his moral compass. This act of creation can also be seen as a coping mechanism to distance himself from the moral guilt of his work .

'Troll' employs a first-person point of view narrative technique, which effectively immerses the reader in the protagonist's immediate experiences and thoughts. This perspective allows readers to intimately engage with his inner turmoil, as they gain direct insight into his rationalizations and conflicts over his job. By conveying the protagonist's struggle in a real-time manner, the narrative deepens the reader's empathy and understanding of the personal cost of his choices, while highlighting the difficulty of navigating moral dilemmas under economic pressure .

The setting of 'Troll,' particularly the luxurious yet eerily empty building reminiscent of 'Malacañang,' symbolizes the deceptive facade that covers the inner workings of political manipulation. The grandeur of the building juxtaposed with the lack of visible people suggests power dynamics where a select few control narratives from behind the scenes. This physical setting enhances the theme of deception by illustrating how truth is hidden behind opulent appearances, reflecting the power held by those in control to shape public perception .

'Troll' illustrates the social impact of misinformation by showing how trolls influence uninformed populations, leading them to believe false information that serves the interests of corrupt individuals. The story reveals the broader consequence of these actions on society, where manipulation leads to public discord and the perpetuation of corrupt practices. It highlights how those who lack critical education are easily swayed by the strategic spread of misinformation, ultimately allowing powerful entities to maintain their control and avoid accountability .

The metaphor of an 'evil god' in 'Troll' enhances the understanding of societal manipulation by comparing those who orchestrate misinformation campaigns to divine figures wielding malevolent power over uninformed followers. This imagery suggests a powerful, almost religious devotion demanded by those who benefit from such manipulation, reflecting the blind allegiance and unquestioning obedience it generates. By equating deceptive influences to an 'evil god,' the story emphasizes the manipulative strength wielded by these entities and the resultant societal harm, compelling readers to reflect on the pervasive impact of misinformation .