Omega (Leonard novel)

In Elmore Leonard's crime fiction, "Omega" is often a slang term, almost exclusively used by or referring to Cuban characters, to denote a powerful, often ruthless, criminal figure, typically associated with drug trafficking or organized crime. The term carries connotations of dominance, authority, and being at the apex of a criminal hierarchy. The exact nuances and implied levels of power can vary slightly depending on the specific context within Leonard's narrative, but it consistently represents someone to be feared and respected (or at least obeyed) within the criminal underworld. The use of "Omega" adds to Leonard's characteristic gritty realism and authentic portrayal of criminal dialogue.