I wouldn't say i know enough about history to comment on the first prompt. I think Red keeps going back because it's the only hustle he knows, at least initially it's the best option for the level of financial security he'd like to have. Why do convicted drug dealers go back to the game after jail?
I think later on in the book, when he is taken care of financially, he returns out of a desire to understand the zone and diffuse his frustration about his current life situation, or maybe it's just had such a big impact on his life he feels attached to it. Despite not having much to say critically, I enjoyed the book. I've got a busy week ahead so I vote Fantastic Planet. I imagine ya'll are gonna have more eloquent responses. I'm excited to read them.