Oathbringer
91. Why He Froze
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter explores the nature of the Unmade, emphasizing that they are fundamentally spren—manifestations of concepts or divine forces rather than individual beings. This perspective frames them as symbols of larger ideas, which influences how characters perceive and interpret their presence and actions. The author underscores the complexity of these entities, suggesting that understanding them requires acknowledging their divine or conceptual origins, rather than viewing them solely as personal or malicious spirits. This insight sets the tone for a broader discussion on the interplay between divine forces and the characters’ struggles within their world.
Kaladin’s memories and current situation highlight his internal conflict and emotional struggles. As he cleans crem on the bunker floor, he is reminded of his past experiences in Amaram’s army and his relationship with his family, especially his brother Tien. His thoughts reveal a deep sense of frustration and helplessness, compounded by the harsh discipline he faces and his desire to be with his brother. Kaladin’s internal dialogue shows his yearning for connection and his fear of losing his familial bonds amidst the chaos and brutality of war, emphasizing his vulnerability and the emotional toll of his circumstances.
The interaction between Kaladin and Sergeant Tukks offers insight into the psychological challenges faced by soldiers. Tukks reassures Kaladin that freezing in battle is a common experience, framing it as a natural part of training rather than punishment. Their conversation delves into the moral dilemmas of war, with Tukks explaining that hurting others is sometimes necessary but still morally complex. Kaladin’s confession that his fear is not of injury but of causing harm to others reveals his moral conflict and empathy, illustrating the emotional struggles soldiers endure when faced with violence and the necessity of killing in warfare.
The chapter concludes with Kaladin’s introspection and the revelation of his true fear: not that he could hurt someone, but that he might be capable of killing if needed. This realization terrifies him, highlighting the moral and emotional boundaries he fears crossing. Tukks’s advice to focus on his squad and their survival resonates with Kaladin’s emerging sense of responsibility. The narrative underscores the importance of camaraderie and moral integrity in a brutal world, as Kaladin suppresses his fears and begins to accept his role within the military, even as his internal conflict remains unresolved. The chapter ends with a glimpse into the surreal realm of Shadesmar, hinting at ongoing spiritual and metaphysical themes.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is Kaladin’s perception of the Unmade, and how does he view them in relation to spren and divine forces?
Answer:
Kaladin’s perception of the Unmade is that, despite the various personalities and motives attributed to them, they are fundamentally still spren. He believes they are manifestations of concepts or divine forces rather than autonomous individuals. This view suggests that the Unmade are more like symbolic or divine representations embedded within the natural or spiritual fabric of the world, rather than sentient beings with independent will. This perspective aligns with the quote from Hessi’s Mythica, emphasizing their nature as spren, which are typically seen as manifestations of abstract concepts or divine forces in the cosmology of the story.
2. Question 2
How does Sergeant Tukks attempt to reassure Kaladin about his moment of freezing during practice, and what deeper message is he conveying about fear and emotion in combat?
Answer:
Sergeant Tukks reassures Kaladin by explaining that freezing in battle is common and that everyone experiences fear, even if they don’t show it openly. He emphasizes that such moments are part of training, allowing soldiers to face their fears now rather than in life-threatening situations. Tukks further explains that emotion, including fear, is a vital part of being human and that feeling fear does not make a soldier weak. The deeper message Tukks conveys is that acknowledging and understanding one’s emotions—especially fear—is crucial to growth and survival. He stresses that caring about others and feeling emotion makes a soldier sane and effective, and that Kaladin’s fear of hurting others is a sign of his moral strength, not weakness.
3. Question 3
What does Kaladin’s internal revelation about his true fear—being afraid of making someone hurt—reveal about his moral character and internal conflict?
Answer:
Kaladin’s revelation that he is afraid of making someone hurt, rather than of getting hurt himself, highlights his deep moral integrity and empathy. It shows that his primary concern is not his own safety but the well-being of others, reflecting his compassionate nature. This internal conflict underscores the difficulty he faces in a brutal world where violence is often necessary, and his fear is rooted in his desire to uphold his moral values. It also explains why he feels such terror at the idea of hurting others; it conflicts with his sense of right and wrong. This internal struggle makes his character more complex, emphasizing the moral weight of the choices he must face.
4. Question 4
In what way does Tukks’ advice to Kaladin about focusing on his squadmates and keeping them alive serve as a lesson for leadership, and how might this be applied in real-world scenarios?
Answer:
Tukks’ advice to focus on his squadmates and prioritize their survival underlines the importance of responsibility, empathy, and team cohesion in leadership. By emphasizing that Kaladin should concentrate on ensuring the safety and well-being of those under his care, Tukks teaches that effective leaders serve as protectors and moral anchors for their team. This principle can be applied in real-world scenarios by reminding leaders to prioritize the needs of their team, foster trust, and act with integrity. Leadership is not about personal glory but about guiding others through difficult situations with compassion and purpose, ensuring that everyone works together toward common goals.
5. Question 5
Reflecting on Kaladin’s experience in this chapter, how does his internal struggle with fear and morality foreshadow his development as a leader?
Answer:
Kaladin’s internal struggle—his fear of hurting others and his moral concern about violence—foreshadows his growth into a leader who is deeply empathetic and morally grounded. His recognition that fear is natural and that caring about others is a sign of sanity indicates that he is beginning to understand the importance of emotional resilience and moral clarity. This internal conflict suggests that, over time, Kaladin will need to reconcile his fears and morals with the realities of war and leadership. His journey involves transforming this moral sensitivity into strength, ultimately enabling him to lead with compassion, integrity, and a sense of responsibility for those he commands.
Quotes
1. “I should point out that although many personalities and motives are ascribed to them, I’m convinced that the Unmade were still spren. As such, they were as much manifestations of concepts or divine forces as they were individuals.”
This quote highlights the author’s perspective on the nature of the Unmade, framing them as divine or conceptual manifestations rather than fully autonomous beings. It introduces a key insight into their symbolic and divine role within the story’s mythos.
2. “Everyone feels that fear.”
This statement, spoken by Tukks, underscores a central theme of vulnerability and shared human experience in the face of battle. It emphasizes that fear is universal, not a sign of weakness, and is an integral part of true courage.
3. “I wasn’t afraid of getting hurt. I was afraid of making someone hurt.”
Kaladin’s confession reveals a profound internal conflict about the moral weight of violence and his desire to protect others from harm. This insight is crucial to understanding his character’s moral dilemma and emotional depth.
4. “The world doesn’t make sense,” Kal thought. His reflection captures the overarching chaos and moral ambiguity he perceives, contrasting his father’s pragmatic advice with the brutal realities of war and violence.
This quote encapsulates the chapter’s exploration of the dissonance between rational understanding and emotional truth, a recurring theme in Kaladin’s development.
5. “Focus on your squadmates, Kal. Keep them alive. Be the man they need.”
This piece of advice from Tukks serves as a pivotal moment, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie, responsibility, and moral strength. It signifies a turning point where Kaladin begins to understand what true leadership entails.
This guidance helps shape Kaladin’s future actions and underscores the chapter’s message about the importance of caring for others amidst chaos.