Oathbringer
115. The Wrong Passion
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter opens with a reference to a mysterious and dangerous power originating from another world, involving spren and Surges that have been forbidden to touch. These powers have led to the destruction of their lands, and now they are seeking aid from others, emphasizing the peril they pose. This sets a tone of high stakes and unseen threats, hinting at the complex mystical forces at play. The narrative introduces a sense of foreboding as these alien powers and their destructive potential threaten the current world, illustrating the gravity of the conflict and the importance of understanding these forces.
Dalinar’s perspective reveals a tense scene amid a brewing storm, both literal and metaphorical. The Everstorm’s fury dominates the sky, with lightning and violent clouds flowing from the west, symbolizing chaos and impending disaster. Dalinar observes ships sailing during the storm, highlighting the enemies’ audacity and strategic boldness. The Stormfather’s voice underscores Dalinar’s limited control over the storm, reflecting the theme of human vulnerability against natural and supernatural forces. The strategic failure of the coalition forces underscores the unpredictable and overwhelming nature of the enemy’s plans, emphasizing that the storm and the enemies’ tactics have shattered their defenses.
Meanwhile, the chapter shifts to a tense gathering at the Oathgate, where characters like Shallan, Kaladin, and Adolin confront the reality of their dire situation. They witness the enemy’s forces—Fused and spren—approaching, with ominous visions and the realization that they have been led into a trap. The characters grapple with the threat of Voidbringers and the uncertainty of their next move, contemplating illusions and distractions as potential strategies. Their dialogue reflects a mixture of fear, resolve, and the acknowledgment that their options are limited, highlighting the desperation and urgency of their mission to understand and utilize the Oathgate.
In the final section, Jasnah’s perspective brings a strategic and pragmatic outlook. She recognizes that Thaylen City is already lost and must focus on evacuation and protecting key individuals, such as her uncle. Her calm demeanor contrasts with the chaos around her, as she assesses the battlefield and plans how to mitigate further losses. Lightning and storm imagery reinforce the ongoing turmoil, but Jasnah’s focus remains on what can still be controlled. Her determination to act decisively amidst the destruction underscores the chapter’s overarching themes of resilience, strategic thinking, and the necessity of adaptation in the face of overwhelming odds.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What is the significance of the storm in the chapter, and how does it influence the events occurring in Thaylen City?
Answer:
The storm, specifically the Everstorm, plays a crucial role in shaping the chapter’s events. Its fierce, blood-red clouds and lightning symbolize chaos and destruction. The storm’s presence affects naval movements, as ships sail through it despite the danger, illustrating its destructive power and the chaos it brings. It also visually and atmospherically underscores the tension of the battle, with enemy ships landing while the storm rages, and the storm slowing or stopping at strategic moments, impacting military tactics. Dalinar reflects on the storm controlling the ocean and the enemy’s ability to sail during it—highlighting how the storm influences both the environment and the strategic considerations of the conflict. Overall, the storm acts as a destructive force that both hampers and facilitates the enemy’s plans, heightening the tension and unpredictability of the battle.2. Question 2
How does the chapter explore the theme of strategic planning versus unforeseen circumstances in warfare?
Answer:
The chapter vividly illustrates the tension between meticulous planning and unpredictable elements of warfare. Dalinar observes how the enemy appears to have anticipated their responses, controlling the storm and landing ships in its shadow, which suggests a high level of strategic planning. Conversely, the chaos of the storm, the unexpected landing of ships, and the unpreparedness of Dalinar’s armies highlight how unforeseen circumstances can undermine even well-laid plans. The narrative emphasizes that despite planning, the environment—such as the storm—and the enemy’s adaptability can create situations beyond control. Kaladin and the others recognize that their options are limited and that they must adapt quickly, even if their plans are compromised. This underscores the unpredictable nature of warfare, where success often depends on flexibility and resilience in the face of chaos.3. Question 3
What does the chapter suggest about the importance of knowledge and foresight in the context of the ongoing conflict?
Answer:
The chapter underscores the importance of knowledge and foresight through several characters’ perspectives. Kaladin’s concern about the vision he received and Shallan’s caution about trusting anyone claiming to see the future highlight how critical information is in strategic decision-making. Jasnah’s reflection on the loss of Thaylen City and her awareness that the enemy played their hand too well demonstrate that understanding their adversary’s plans and environment is vital. Moreover, the recurring theme of foreseeing danger—whether through visions or strategic awareness—suggests that knowledge can be a decisive factor in warfare. The chapter implies that accurate foresight enables characters to prepare or adapt, but also warns of the dangers of misplaced trust in predictions, emphasizing that knowledge must be tempered with caution and judgment.4. Question 4
In what ways do the characters’ reactions to the chaos reflect their individual personalities and roles within the story?
Answer:
The characters’ reactions reveal their distinct personalities and roles. Dalinar remains composed and contemplative, reflecting his leadership and experience, as he considers the broader strategic picture and the storm’s influence. Kaladin’s frantic concern and determination show his sense of responsibility and protective nature, as he seeks ways to help and save others. Shallan’s weariness and cautiousness demonstrate her introspective and analytical mindset, grappling with her doubts and the burden of her knowledge. Jasnah’s focus on evacuation and her calm assessment of Thaylen City’s fall display her pragmatic and strategic mindset. These reactions highlight their individual traits—leadership, responsibility, caution, and pragmatism—and how they contribute to their roles in navigating the chaos of war.5. Question 5
How might the themes explored in this chapter—such as chaos, strategy, and foresight—be applicable to real-world situations outside of the story?
Answer:
The themes of chaos, strategy, and foresight are highly applicable to real-world situations, particularly in areas such as leadership, crisis management, and decision-making. In any complex scenario—whether military, political, or business—unexpected events can disrupt plans, requiring leaders to adapt quickly. The chapter’s emphasis on the importance of knowledge and foresight illustrates how understanding potential outcomes and anticipating challenges can influence success. The chaos of the storm mirrors unpredictable external factors like economic shifts or natural disasters, which can upend carefully crafted strategies. The characters’ need to remain flexible and vigilant highlights the importance of resilience and strategic thinking in managing uncertainty and navigating crises effectively.
Quotes
1. “They came from another world, using powers that we have been forbidden to touch. Dangerous powers, of spren and Surges. They destroyed their lands and have come to us begging.”
This quote, from the Eila Stele, encapsulates the dangerous origins and formidable nature of the enemy, highlighting the theme of forbidden power and its destructive consequences that permeate the chapter.
2. “He controls it, he uses it, as Honor once used me.”
This statement reflects on the nature of power and control, illustrating the Stormfather’s comment about the storm’s manipulation and the parallels to Honor’s influence, emphasizing the strategic and ominous control the enemy wields.
3. “It is what he does.”
A succinct yet profound insight into the character’s method—highlighting the enemy’s meticulous planning and the inevitability of their actions, which underscores the chapter’s focus on strategic foresight and the futility of underestimating the opposition.
4. “Some problems could not be fixed with a lie.”
This line spoken by Shallan captures a key moment of internal conflict, emphasizing the limitations of illusion and deception in the face of harsh realities, and pointing to the chapter’s exploration of truth versus illusion.
5. “Lightning from the storm lit the city red.”
A powerful visual that signifies the chaos and destruction overtaking Thaylen City, symbolizing the overwhelming force of the storm and the dire situation faced by the defenders, serving as a stark conclusion to the chapter’s depiction of battle and loss.