Nostromo shot by Viola is the People shot by the Defender of the People, the man of many names shot in a case of mistaken identity, the thief shot for the wrong crime, the socialist shot at the moment when the keeper of property steps down to consult the man of Liberty. Allegorically, it is a grim judgement passed by the novel against both the People (Nostromo) and the Society (Viola). The People are shot because of their transgression in attempting to escape the exploitative conditions of human society, an attempt portrayed by the novel as impossible and thus leading to nothing but discontent and "crime." Society, in its turn, pulls the trigger because even in its most benevolent, optimistic form -- even when dedicated to nothing but the protection of the People -- it must end by destroying the People, because it is by nature an exploitative, conquering force.