Page 24 - Big Idea

The Big Idea – Act 1

Most people don’t want to shake things up;
Their conservative nature tells them
To maintain the equilibrium—
At least it can be tolerated.

Here we see the need for imposing
Mythology upon the young mind:
The ruler’s divine descent creates
Belief in his legitimacy.

Then, as the boy grows into the man,
He observes the results of action,
And learns the fickleness of fate
In satisfying his hopes and dreams.

Yes, adults are less willing to change,
Because they have seen good intentions
Often produce unwanted results,
And attempts to gain that end in loss.

So, exploiting this unwillingness
To upset the existing order,
The ruler can exercise his will
With very little opposition:

He can cunningly reward his friends,
Making them compete with each other
Instead of organizing themselves
To overthrow his authority.

Those to whom benefits are denied,
Will strive to gain his favor
By further suppressing those below,
As further proof of their loyalty.

This set of complex relationships
Constitutes a real pecking order,
Similar to those of animals
Who defer more often than challenge.

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