What is the importance of the "cue ball" in the novel, The Topeka School?

The cue ball symbolizes the widespread destructive effects of toxic masculinity, male aggression, and male entitlement. Darren was often the subject of pranks and derision from his supposed friends. These supposed friends sometimes pranked Darren by encouraging him to flirt with women, knowing Darren would be rebuffed. On one such occasion, Darren impulsively threw a billiard ball at the woman, badly injuring her. Daren was then arrested by police.