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Patricia Reding
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Science Fiction & Fantasy
Author Insight
Ignorance as a Tool
In most of history, it has been the case that the masses (or significant portions of them) have been left intentionally ignorant because it is easier for those in power to control ill-informed and/or uneducated people. The empire of Chiran is fashioned after those old ways. Zarek and his ilk do not want the common person to have much information. Thus, it should come as no surprise that Joseph warns Jerrett here not to let the Chiranian guards know that he can read. Our real world has changed so that many people in many places can actually read these days. Do you think, however, that there are other ways to keep them ignorant--to control them? Do you suppose that controlling the type of information they have access to could be of benefit to those in power? Do you suppose that to allow information to be exposed--but only when it is bent in favor of those in control--that those in power are benefitted? Do you see anything of that sort happening in our world today? If so, who do you think is doing the controlling? Politicians? The media? Schools? Others?
Book Excerpt
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“This is the best way to get the information, the personal intelligence, that we require,” Jerrett said, “and quickly. We need to infiltrate the guard in Chiran.”
“Yes,” Marshall agreed. “And Adli’s documents name me as Cark’s newly appointment right-hand man, so that should help.”
“What of you, Jerrett?” Joseph asked him.
“We’ll see where they position me,” the Oathtaker said. “I’ve infiltrated Chiranian ranks in the past. I can do it again.”
“Well then, there are a number of guards stationed in Darth who run messages from place to place. If you could get yourself assigned to those ranks, you might be able to read things before delivering them elsewhere. You may learn something that way.” Once again, Joseph scanned Jerrett’s tattoos. “You’ll fit in well there.”
The Oathtaker grinned as he glanced at his forearms. “Yes, they serve a useful purpose now and again. But I wonder if there’s anything I can do to help increase my chances of becoming a messenger.”
Joseph’s brow rose. “Can you read?”
Jerrett pulled back. “Yes, of course.”
“Don’t let them know that.”
“Well, I guess that’s it,” the innkeeper said. “If you two still insist on going, then go with the Good One’s blessings.”
“We’re all packed,” Marshall said. “Are you ready for this?” he asked Jerrett.
“If you are.”
“I am. Someone’s got to keep you out of trouble.”
“No time like the present then, I guess,” Jerrett said, chuckling, as he made his way to the door.
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