[bagster]

Webb as referring to Burgess as a Clockwork Orange, not the title ‘A Clockwork Orange’; subtle distinction adding to a reader’s knowledge.

I hear what you're saying. But remember, a "clockwork orange" is something that is programmed. A living thing that is programmed like something mechanical. Like maybe that kid was by some revamped MK Ultra deep state program. Drugs, cell phones, etc. So to say that the suicide Burgess was a "clockwork orange" is to say he was like Alex in the book. Programmed to act a certain way.

Just my take.

[Hostage]

Good take!