Oathbringer
4. Oaths
by Sanderson, BrandonThe chapter “Oaths” opens with a reflective tone, quoting Dalinar’s preface from *Oathbringer* that hints at his perceived heresy and the weight of his beliefs. It sets a somber mood, emphasizing themes of faith, doubt, and the burden of leadership. The narrative then shifts to a pivotal moment: Dalinar’s awareness of an unnatural, ominous storm—the reappearance of the Everstorm—signaling impending chaos. His connection with the Stormfather underscores the mystical relationship between the Storms and the world of Roshar. Dalinar’s internal feelings of dread and the storm’s strange, vengeful nature foreshadow a coming catastrophe that threatens the land and its people.
The scene vividly describes the storm’s destructive power and its eerie, almost sentient presence. Dalinar observes the storm’s ominous approach, feeling its unnatural cold and inner chill, which signifies something more sinister than a typical highstorm. The Stormfather’s distant voice confirms this, revealing that the storm is a new, unknown force—an enemy riding the storm itself, intent on destruction. Dalinar perceives visions of devastation—cities razed, fields destroyed, and people fleeing—highlighting the storm’s malevolence and the threat it poses to Roshar’s stability. This portrayal underscores the storm as a symbol of an emerging, vengeful adversary that aims to sow chaos and death.
Further introspection reveals Dalinar’s understanding that the storm’s wrath is targeted at the vulnerable—small towns, fields, and unprepared populations—rather than just large cities. The storm’s deliberate attacks and the red lightning hint at a calculated assault, not just a natural phenomenon. The imagery of glowing red eyes and the storm’s anger evoke a sense of an active, intelligent enemy. Dalinar recognizes that this storm’s purpose is to weaken and destabilize, possibly to facilitate the rise of the Voidbringers and turn parshmen into tools of destruction. The chapter emphasizes that this is a new level of threat, reminiscent of the Desolations, with a focus on bloodshed and chaos.
In the closing sections, Dalinar’s personal struggles and relationships come into focus. Navani’s support and her attempt to comfort him reveal the emotional toll of leadership and the burden of responsibility. Their intimate exchange underscores Dalinar’s internal conflict—his desire for control and stability versus the chaos threatening to engulf them. His resolve to find a solution through oaths symbolizes a commitment to unity and binding promises, vital in facing the impending darkness. The chapter concludes with Dalinar’s determination to act decisively, recognizing that the path forward involves firm commitments and unwavering resolve, even amid uncertainty and peril.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the storm’s appearance and behavior in this chapter, and how does it reflect the larger themes of the narrative?
Answer:
The storm’s appearance—an unnatural, vengeful Everstorm—symbolizes chaos, destruction, and a darker force at work beyond natural order. Its black clouds, red lightning, and the feeling of malevolence contrast with the more familiar highstorms, emphasizing that this storm is not just a natural phenomenon but a manifestation of a malevolent force threatening Roshar. Its destructive imagery, including houses torn apart and cities blasted, underscores themes of chaos, war, and impending doom. The storm also acts as a literal and metaphorical reflection of the threat facing Dalinar and his world—an unstoppable, vengeful force that challenges their understanding of nature and fate. This foreshadows the larger struggle between order and chaos that is central to the narrative.2. How does Dalinar’s interaction with the Stormfather deepen our understanding of his character and his role in the story?
Answer:
Dalinar’s communication with the Stormfather reveals him as a leader burdened by responsibility and a deep connection to the spiritual and natural forces of Roshar. His concern about the storm’s unnaturalness and the impressions of destruction it leaves suggest he is sensitive to the broader implications of these events. His questions about whether this storm is a new threat or linked to previous Desolations highlight his role as a protector and a figure seeking understanding amidst chaos. His respect for the Stormfather’s distant, sometimes petulant behavior shows his humility and patience, emphasizing his willingness to listen and learn. Overall, this interaction underscores Dalinar’s importance as a leader who grapples with cosmic forces while striving to protect his people.3. What do Dalinar’s reflections on oaths imply about their importance in his plans to confront the storm and the larger conflicts on Roshar?
Answer:
Dalinar’s mention of “oaths” as a way to “do it right” signifies their vital role in establishing trust, commitment, and binding promises that can hold individuals and groups accountable. In the context of confronting the storm and the chaos threatening Roshar, oaths symbolize a moral and spiritual foundation—an act of binding oneself to a cause or a set of principles. They are essential for unifying people and ensuring collective resolve. Dalinar’s focus on oaths suggests he understands that overcoming these cosmic and worldly threats requires more than mere strategy; it requires binding oneself through vows that reinforce discipline, loyalty, and purpose. This underscores the theme of vows as a cornerstone of leadership and heroism in the story.4. How does Navani’s interaction with Dalinar illustrate the dynamics of their relationship and their individual struggles?
Answer:
Navani’s interaction with Dalinar reveals a relationship rooted in deep understanding, mutual respect, and underlying tension. Her gentle teasing about his stubbornness and her awareness of his internal struggles demonstrate her perceptiveness. Her concern about whether his refusal to relax or accept comfort is driven by pride or a sense of duty highlights her role as both confidante and supporter. Their physical closeness and her attempt to seduce him contrast with his desire for control and restraint, illustrating the tension between emotion and discipline. This dynamic emphasizes their emotional intimacy, with Navani acting as a grounding influence, and also reflects Dalinar’s internal conflict—his need for control versus his desire for connection and peace.5. In what ways does the chapter explore the themes of control, responsibility, and the need for vows or commitments?
Answer:
The chapter explores these themes through Dalinar’s internal monologue and dialogue. His emphasis on control is evident in his resistance to being seduced or overwhelmed by emotion, driven by past experiences of chaos and loss. His recognition that “control is important” indicates a belief that stability and order are essential in the face of chaos, such as the destructive storm. The mention of “oaths” as a means to “do it right” underscores the importance of commitments—vows—as a way to forge stability, trust, and purpose amidst uncertainty. These vows serve as a moral anchor, reinforcing discipline and unity, which are crucial for confronting the larger threats faced by Roshar. Overall, the chapter suggests that responsibility and binding promises are vital tools for navigating chaos and maintaining order.
Quotes
1. “I know that many women who read this will see it only as further proof that I am the godless heretic everyone claims.”
This quote, from the chapter’s preface, highlights the author’s acknowledgment of their controversial reputation and sets a tone of defiance and introspection that permeates the narrative.
2. “This thing is not natural, it is unknown.”
Spoken by the Stormfather, this line emphasizes the unprecedented and mysterious nature of the storm approaching Roshar, marking it as a significant threat unlike any in previous Desolations.
3. “The enemy rides this storm. He’s aware of you, Dalinar.”
This revelation from the Stormfather underscores the strategic and malevolent intelligence behind the storm, framing it as an active enemy targeting Dalinar’s world and its inhabitants.
4. “Control is important to me, Navani,” he said, his voice hoarse. “You know how I was, what I became, when I was a man with no control. I will not surrender now.”
This quote captures Dalinar’s internal struggle with restraint and his resolve to maintain his discipline, which is central to his character and the chapter’s exploration of oaths and commitments.
5. “I’ll find a way to do it right. With oaths.”
Dalinar’s concluding statement emphasizes the importance of oaths as a means of establishing trust, order, and resolve—key themes that underpin the chapter’s message about the power of promises and commitments.