Oathbringer
14. Squires Can’t Capture
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter begins with Kaladin stealthily observing a group of Voidbringers, monstrous enemies from mythological origins, whom he expects to be dangerous and destructive. Instead, he finds them engaged in mundane activities like playing cards in the rain, which surprises him and challenges his preconceived notions of their brutality. The scene is set with Kaladin hiding near their camp, noting their simple living conditions, such as tarps and a single enclosed tent, and their seemingly relaxed demeanor, which contrasts sharply with their feared reputation. This moment prompts a reflection on the disparity between appearances and reality, especially regarding the enemy’s true nature.
Kaladin’s detailed observation reveals that the Voidbringers are more human-like than expected—they speak like common villagers, wear simple clothing, and have features that differ from the mythic monsters he anticipated. Their skin tones vary, and they display no overt signs of the terrifying traits associated with their kind. The dialogue between the male and female parshmen hints at their familiarity with games and social interactions, further humanizing them. Kaladin is struck by how much his assumptions about their ferocity might be misplaced, as they seem more like ordinary people caught in difficult circumstances rather than monsters intent on destruction.
The narrative then shifts to a moment of realization for Kaladin, as he contemplates the apparent disconnect between what he has been told about the Voidbringers and what he is witnessing. He begins to question his understanding of the ongoing conflict, pondering the absence of the expected destructive beasts and red-eyed monsters. This sense of confusion and doubt grows as he considers the possibility that his previous knowledge might have been incomplete or inaccurate, emphasizing a theme of misjudgment and the importance of seeing beyond surface appearances to understand the true nature of the enemy.
The chapter concludes with a sudden alarm, revealing that Kaladin’s presence has been detected. As chaos erupts, the parshmen scramble with makeshift weapons, displaying fear rather than combat readiness. Kaladin, recognizing their lack of true combat skill and seeing their vulnerability, hesitates to attack. Instead, he chooses to surrender, signaling a shift in his perception of the enemy and highlighting the complex, nuanced reality behind the conflicts he faces. This moment underscores themes of empathy, the unpredictability of war, and the importance of understanding one’s foes before rushing into violence.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What does Kaladin’s observation of the parshmen playing cards reveal about their current situation and the nature of their environment?
Answer:
Kaladin’s observation that the parshmen are playing cards in the rain, sitting out in exposed areas with minimal shelter, indicates that they are in a vulnerable, possibly makeshift camp. Their relaxed demeanor and engagement in a mundane activity like playing cards suggest a temporary or subdued state, contrasting with the violent image of their mythological past. The environment is harsh—rainy, damp, and lacking proper shelter—highlighting their dire circumstances. This scene also hints at a level of normalcy or adaptation amidst hardship, revealing that these parshmen are not always the monsters of legend but are capable of mundane, human-like activities, which deepens the reader’s understanding of their complex situation.2. Question 2
How does the dialogue between the parshmen about the game of squires reflect their cultural or social understanding, and what does it suggest about their familiarity with human customs?
Answer:
The dialogue reveals that the parshmen are familiar with the game of squires, indicating that they have observed or learned about human customs and games. The male’s uncertainty about how to play, despite having watched others, suggests a gap between observation and understanding, pointing to limited experience or knowledge. Their casual discussion about whether squires can capture, and the male’s comment about not knowing how to play despite watching many times, illustrates their attempt to grasp complex social interactions and rules of human culture. This familiarity hints at a level of integration or proximity to human environments, but also suggests that their understanding may be superficial or incomplete, reflecting their position as outsiders trying to navigate unfamiliar social customs.3. Question 3
What is the significance of Kaladin’s realization that they have been “so wrong” about the Voidbringers and the monsters from the mythological past?
Answer:
Kaladin’s realization that they have been “so wrong” signifies a pivotal moment of reevaluation of his understanding of the Voidbringers. Previously, he and others believed these creatures to be monstrous destroyers with red eyes—mythological beasts embodying chaos and destruction. His observation of the parshmen playing cards, seemingly ordinary and non-threatening, challenges this perception. It suggests that the Voidbringers may not be the mindless monsters from legend but perhaps more complex beings, possibly capable of ordinary activities and perhaps even vulnerabilities. This shift in understanding opens the possibility that their true nature might be misunderstood or underestimated, which can influence how Kaladin and others approach their conflict and strategy moving forward.4. Question 4
Analyze the significance of the scene where the parshmen are accused of being watched, and Kaladin chooses to surrender. What does this reveal about his character and the broader context of the chapter?
Answer:
Kaladin’s decision to surrender despite his combat training and the apparent ability to fight indicates a moment of strategic restraint and moral complexity. His hesitation and decision to hold his hands up, signaling surrender, demonstrate his awareness of the larger situation—possibly recognizing that fighting might not be the best course of action or that he is outnumbered or outmatched. It also reveals his compassion and desire to avoid unnecessary violence, aligning with his character’s ongoing internal struggle with leadership and morality. The scene underscores themes of perception, misjudgment, and the importance of understanding before acting. It also hints at a fragile peace or a tense standoff, emphasizing that appearances can be deceiving and that true strength involves restraint and insight.5. Question 5
Considering the chapter’s depiction of the parshmen and their environment, what themes about perception and reality are explored, and how might these influence the reader’s understanding of the story’s larger conflict?
Answer:
The chapter explores themes of perception versus reality through the depiction of the parshmen, who are seen engaging in mundane activities like playing cards, and the misconception that they are solely destructive monsters. Kaladin’s initial assumptions about the Voidbringers as mythological destroyers are challenged by his observations, suggesting that appearances can be deceiving. This theme encourages the reader to question stereotypes and superficial judgments, emphasizing that understanding complex situations requires deeper insight. It also highlights that conflict is often rooted in misunderstandings, and that true knowledge can reshape perceptions. This nuanced portrayal invites readers to consider that the larger conflict may stem from misjudgments and that empathy and observation are crucial for resolution.
Quotes
1. “In this record, I hold nothing back. I will try not to shy away from difficult topics, or paint myself in a dishonestly heroic light.”
*This quote, from the preface of Oathbringer, sets the tone for the chapter’s introspective and honest approach, emphasizing a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths and complexities rather than portraying a hero’s narrative.*
2. “We thought we understood what was going to happen… I was so sure…”
Kaladin reflects on his previous assumptions about the Voidbringers, highlighting themes of misconception and the danger of overconfidence in understanding enemy forces. It marks a key turning point where he questions his previous beliefs about the nature of the threat.
3. “Kaladin hesitated. I could take them all in a fight even without Stormlight.”
This moment underscores Kaladin’s confidence in his combat abilities and his internal conflict about whether to act violently or to surrender, illustrating the chapter’s exploration of power, restraint, and the human response to perceived threat.
4. “They still wore their simple slave smocks, tied at the waists with strings. No red eyes. Did that change, perhaps, like his own eyes?”
This observation challenges Kaladin’s assumptions about the parshmen, suggesting that appearances and stereotypes may be misleading. It introduces a nuanced view of the enemy, emphasizing the theme of misunderstanding and the complexity of identity.
5. “I surrender.”
Kaladin’s final decision to surrender, despite his formidable strength, encapsulates the chapter’s exploration of restraint, humility, and the recognition that sometimes true strength lies in choosing not to fight.
This powerful conclusion underscores the chapter’s message about the importance of discernment and the unexpected forms of courage.