Here's a breakdown:
* Physical Abuse: The most prominent external conflict is the physical abuse inflicted upon Dave by his mother. This includes beatings, starvation, forced labor, and being denied basic needs like food and water.
* Emotional Abuse: Dave endures constant verbal abuse, manipulation, and emotional neglect. His mother systematically undermines his self-worth, making him feel worthless and unloved.
* Neglect: Dave is deprived of basic care and support, leaving him vulnerable and isolated. He is forced to fend for himself, seeking food and warmth on the streets.
* Isolation: The abuse isolates Dave from any form of external support. He is prevented from attending school, making friends, or confiding in anyone about his situation.
The external conflict manifests in Dave's struggle for survival against his mother's abuse. It creates a constant sense of fear, desperation, and a need to protect himself from further harm.
However, it's important to acknowledge that while the external conflict of the abuse is significant, it's intertwined with Dave's internal conflict of trying to make sense of the abuse and maintain a sense of identity and worth.