Oathbringer
50. Shash Thirty-Seven
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a directive not to return to Obrodai, as a new manifestation of a powerful entity is emerging there. This warning emphasizes the ongoing spiritual and cosmic upheaval affecting their world. The young girl associated with this new avatar harbors an intense and deliberate dislike for Dalinar, underscoring the complex political and personal tensions at play. These revelations highlight the shifting allegiances and the dangerous, unpredictable nature of the emerging powers, setting a tone of cautious foreboding about the future of Obrodai and the broader conflict.
Dalinar’s experience of flying with Kaladin evokes the sensation of being on a ship at sea, emphasizing the natural yet unnerving nature of this form of travel. The wind and currents make it a perilous journey, mirroring the unpredictable chaos of the ocean. Despite the breathtaking view of the Shattered Plains and the strategic insight it offers, Dalinar finds the act of flying deeply unnatural and disconcerting, especially with the winds buffeting them. His reliance on Navani’s guidance underscores the importance of support and control amid this unfamiliar, high-altitude environment.
As they traverse the skies, Kaladin demonstrates exceptional mastery of flying, contrasting sharply with the less skilled soldiers. This control symbolizes Kaladin’s growing expertise and confidence, which he seeks to refine through practice, especially in preparation for a storm-fueled journey to Kholinar. The aerial reconnaissance reveals the layout of the warcamps and the strategic positions of allied forces, providing crucial intelligence. The scene underscores the urgency and tactical considerations of their military campaign, as well as the technological advancements in their transportation methods.
The chapter concludes with Dalinar and the others arriving at a well-preserved warcamp, where discussions focus on logistics and strategic vulnerabilities. The camp’s state offers a sense of stability amidst chaos, but concerns remain about the long-term sustainability of their operations. Navani’s vision of establishing a new kingdom on the Shattered Plains contrasts with others’ cautious outlook, reflecting divergent visions for their future. The chapter ends with Dalinar reflecting in his former residence, contemplating the ongoing challenges and the uncertain road ahead, emphasizing the fragile balance between progress and peril in their war effort.
FAQs
1. What are the main emotional and psychological challenges Dalinar experiences during the flying trip with Kaladin, and how does he compare this experience to being on a ship at sea?
Answer:
Dalinar finds the experience of flying alongside Kaladin profoundly disconcerting, akin to being on a ship in the ocean. He feels a sense of vulnerability, as the ocean’s waves are uncontrollable and men can only hope not to be consumed by them. Similarly, flying exposes him to unpredictable winds and currents, making him feel out of control. The view is magnificent, yet the unnaturalness of flight—buffeted by winds and needing constant adjustments—heightens his unease. This comparison underscores the themes of human vulnerability and the challenge of navigating forces beyond control, whether at sea or in the sky. Dalinar’s reliance on Navani’s support highlights his cautious approach to this unfamiliar and daunting experience.2. How does Kaladin’s control over his flying compare to that of his men, and what does this reveal about his skills and attitude toward training?
Answer:
Kaladin demonstrates exceptional control over his flying, being the only one who appears truly in command of his movements, whereas his men tend to fly more like “dropped rocks.” This contrast reveals Kaladin’s finesse and mastery of the Windrunner’s powers, especially his ability to Lash himself and others with precision. His skill indicates a high level of training and confidence, and his willingness to practice extensively—flying groups of soldiers back and forth—to prepare for their mission to Kholinar. His control reflects his meticulous nature and dedication to mastering his abilities, which are crucial for ensuring safety and effectiveness during dangerous flights in stormy conditions.3. What strategic considerations does Dalinar express regarding the location of the warcamp and the broader military campaign, and what are the potential risks involved?
Answer:
Dalinar is concerned about the logistical challenges of maintaining multiple bases—Narak, Urithiru, and the current warcamp—spread over a long distance. He worries that dividing forces could increase vulnerability to enemy attacks, especially since the march from Narak to the warcamp involves significant exposure. His strategic concern is that dispersing forces might weaken their overall defensive position. He recognizes that while the warcamp is well-preserved and provides a strategic foothold, relying on multiple locations could stretch their resources and make coordinated defense more difficult. This highlights the tension between logistical necessity and strategic security in their campaign planning.4. Based on the chapter, what are the differing perspectives on establishing a new kingdom on the Shattered Plains, and what are the underlying reasons for these differing views?
Answer:
Navani advocates for founding a new kingdom on and around the Shattered Plains, suggesting they could develop the land, import farmers, and bolster production, thus creating a new stronghold. Conversely, others caution against this, citing the harsh environment—smaller crop yields, less fertile soil, and the dangers of the area, such as the uninhabited Unclaimed Hills and the threat of ongoing attacks. The primary concern is that establishing a new kingdom during a Desolation could overextend their resources and expose them to greater risk. The debate reflects differing priorities: Navani’s vision of growth and resilience versus the pragmatic caution of preserving their existing territories and resources for survival.5. How does the chapter explore the theme of control versus chaos through Dalinar’s reflections on flying, ships, and the natural elements?
Answer:
The chapter presents flying as a metaphor for human attempts to control nature—Dalinar compares it to being on a ship at sea, where men are at the mercy of waves and wind, and their control is limited. Kaladin’s mastery over flying symbolizes the pursuit of mastery over chaos, yet even he must constantly adapt and correct course. The Stormfather’s comment that men are not of the waves or the sky underscores the idea that humans are inherently vulnerable to natural forces beyond their full control. Dalinar’s reflections reveal a recognition of the delicate balance between human mastery and the unpredictable chaos of nature, emphasizing humility and the importance of respecting natural forces even as they strive for control.
Quotes
1. “We also instruct that you should not return to Obrodai. We have claimed that world, and a new avatar of our being is beginning to manifest there.”
This quote highlights the divine authority and the shifting power dynamics, emphasizing that Obrodai is now under new control and that the old world is no longer accessible, setting a tone of change and divine intervention in the chapter.
2. “Men should not be upon the waters during a storm, men are not of the waves.”
This statement reflects the Stormfather’s perspective on human vulnerability in the face of natural and divine forces, illustrating the chapter’s exploration of humanity’s relationship with nature and the divine.
3. “It is like being on a ship. What would it feel like to be up here during a highstorm? That was how Kaladin planned to get Elhokar’s team to Kholinar—fly them at the leading edge of a storm, so his Stormlight was continually renewed.”
This passage underscores the peril and awe of flying through storms, symbolizing both danger and divine power, and highlights Kaladin’s innovative strategy to harness Stormlight for transportation.
4. “Some are [men of the sky].”
This grudging acknowledgment from the Stormfather introduces the concept that humans can transcend natural limitations, hinting at the chapter’s themes of divine intervention and human potential.
5. “This is a long march from Narak and the Oathgate. I fear that by dividing our forces among Narak, here, and Urithiru, we’re increasing our vulnerability to an attack.”
This quote captures the strategic dilemma faced by Dalinar, emphasizing the tension between logistical practicality and security in their military planning, a core concern of the chapter.
Quotes
1. “We also instruct that you should not return to Obrodai. We have claimed that world, and a new avatar of our being is beginning to manifest there.”
This quote highlights the divine authority and the shifting power dynamics, emphasizing that Obrodai is now under new control and that the old world is no longer accessible, setting a tone of change and divine intervention in the chapter.
2. “Men should not be upon the waters during a storm, men are not of the waves.”
This statement reflects the Stormfather’s perspective on human vulnerability in the face of natural and divine forces, illustrating the chapter’s exploration of humanity’s relationship with nature and the divine.
3. “It is like being on a ship. What would it feel like to be up here during a highstorm? That was how Kaladin planned to get Elhokar’s team to Kholinar — fly them at the leading edge of a storm, so his Stormlight was continually renewed.”
This passage underscores the peril and awe of flying through storms, symbolizing both danger and divine power, and highlights Kaladin’s innovative strategy to harness Stormlight for transportation.
4. “Some are [men of the sky].”
This grudging acknowledgment from the Stormfather introduces the concept that humans can transcend natural limitations, hinting at the chapter’s themes of divine intervention and human potential.
5. “This is a long march from Narak and the Oathgate. I fear that by dividing our forces among Narak, here, and Urithiru, we’re increasing our vulnerability to an attack.”
This quote captures the strategic dilemma faced by Dalinar, emphasizing the tension between logistical practicality and security in their military planning, a core concern of the chapter.
FAQs
1. What are the main emotional and psychological challenges Dalinar experiences during the flying trip with Kaladin, and how does he compare this experience to being on a ship at sea?
Answer:
Dalinar finds the experience of flying alongside Kaladin profoundly disconcerting, akin to being on a ship in the ocean. He feels a sense of vulnerability, as the ocean’s waves are uncontrollable and men can only hope not to be consumed by them. Similarly, flying exposes him to unpredictable winds and currents, making him feel out of control. The view is magnificent, yet the unnaturalness of flight—buffeted by winds and needing constant adjustments—heightens his unease. This comparison underscores the themes of human vulnerability and the challenge of navigating forces beyond control, whether at sea or in the sky. Dalinar’s reliance on Navani’s support highlights his cautious approach to this unfamiliar and daunting experience.
2. How does Kaladin’s control over his flying compare to that of his men, and what does this reveal about his skills and attitude toward training?
Answer:
Kaladin demonstrates exceptional control over his flying, being the only one who appears truly in command of his movements, whereas his men tend to fly more like “dropped rocks.” This contrast reveals Kaladin’s finesse and mastery of the Windrunner’s powers, especially his ability to Lash himself and others with precision. His skill indicates a high level of training and confidence, and his willingness to practice extensively—flying groups of soldiers back and forth—to prepare for their mission to Kholinar. His control reflects his meticulous nature and dedication to mastering his abilities, which are crucial for ensuring safety and effectiveness during dangerous flights in stormy conditions.
3. What strategic considerations does Dalinar express regarding the location of the warcamp and the broader military campaign, and what are the potential risks involved?
Answer:
Dalinar is concerned about the logistical challenges of maintaining multiple bases—Narak, Urithiru, and the current warcamp—spread over a long distance. He worries that dividing forces could increase vulnerability to enemy attacks, especially since the march from Narak to the warcamp involves significant exposure. His strategic concern is that dispersing forces might weaken their overall defensive position. He recognizes that while the warcamp is well-preserved and provides a strategic foothold, relying on multiple locations could stretch their resources and make coordinated defense more difficult. This highlights the tension between logistical necessity and strategic security in their campaign planning.
4. Based on the chapter, what are the differing perspectives on establishing a new kingdom on the Shattered Plains, and what are the underlying reasons for these differing views?
Answer:
Navani advocates for founding a new kingdom on and around the Shattered Plains, suggesting they could develop the land, import farmers, and bolster production, thus creating a new stronghold. Conversely, others caution against this, citing the harsh environment—smaller crop yields, less fertile soil, and the dangers of the area, such as the uninhabited Unclaimed Hills and the threat of ongoing attacks. The primary concern is that establishing a new kingdom during a Desolation could overextend their resources and expose them to greater risk. The debate reflects differing priorities: Navani’s vision of growth and resilience versus the pragmatic caution of preserving their existing territories and resources for survival.
5. How does the chapter explore the theme of control versus chaos through Dalinar’s reflections on flying, ships, and the natural elements?
Answer:
The chapter presents flying as a metaphor for human attempts to control nature—Dalinar compares it to being on a ship at sea, where men are at the mercy of waves and wind, and their control is limited. Kaladin’s mastery over flying symbolizes the pursuit of mastery over chaos, yet even he must constantly adapt and correct course. The Stormfather’s comment that men are not of the waves or the sky underscores the idea that humans are inherently vulnerable to natural forces beyond their full control. Dalinar’s reflections reveal a recognition of the delicate balance between human mastery and the unpredictable chaos of nature, emphasizing humility and the importance of respecting natural forces even as they strive for control.
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