Guided By Error

Poet's note: Gilbert Sordebabari's poem titled "Guided By Error" delves into the themes of subjugation, manipulation, and the erosion of personal agency. Through vivid imagery and thought-provoking metaphors, the poet captures the essence of a relentless force that seeks to control and diminish individuals, ultimately leading them down a path of despair and isolation. The poem begins by introducing a menacing figure who possesses the power to terrify and subjugate others. This figure, referred to as "he," employs various tactics to maintain control over individuals. The use of the pronoun "he" suggests a universal force rather than a specific person, making the poem applicable to a broader context. The poet emphasizes the insidious nature of this force by illustrating how it manipulates individuals into embracing ideologies and roles they would not have chosen otherwise. The line "He turns you a slave and make you fall in love with military when you never chose force" suggests that the force compels people to become enamored with violence and aggression, even if it contradicts their inherent nature. Furthermore, the force in the poem exacerbates the situation by pushing individuals towards criminality, effectively painting them as gangsters and terrorists. This portrayal highlights the force's ability to manipulate public opinion and perception, as it conveniently labels individuals as threats to society while ignoring its own role in pushing them towards desperate acts. The poet underscores the force's Machiavellian nature by exploring how it exploits people's weaknesses and desires. By lending silver and gold only to steal them back, the force not only asserts its dominance but also weakens individuals' faith and resilience. The metaphorical "chaining of the wings of your faith" suggests the stifling of hope and freedom, leaving individuals trapped in a state of despair and disillusionment. Sordebabari's use of contrasting elements, such as comedy and tragedy, adds depth to the poem. The force in question is portrayed as tragic, devoid of humor, and consistently contributing to negative outcomes. This juxtaposition emphasizes the oppressive and destructive nature of the force, contrasting it with the potential for growth and positivity. The poem also highlights the detrimental effects of the force on individuals' personal development and societal progress. It explores how fear and intimidation hinder individuals from embracing their own greatness and appreciating the success of others. The force thrives on creating an environment of envy, divisiveness, and hostility, effectively impeding personal growth and hindering social harmony. The final stanza of the poem serves as a call to action. The poet urges readers not to allow their minds to be guided by error and emphasizes the importance of critical thinking. By rejecting the influence of this force and cultivating a discerning perspective, individuals can avoid falling prey to its manipulations and preserve their autonomy. In conclusion, "Guided By Error" by Gilbert Sordebabari is a poignant literary work that explores the themes of subjugation, manipulation, and the erosion of personal agency. Through vivid imagery and metaphorical language, the poet sheds light on the destructive influence of an oppressive force that seeks to control and diminish individuals. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying vigilant, embracing personal agency, and resisting external forces that seek to manipulate and disempower us.