On Orwellian and “Genocidal Organ”

By Junelie Anthony Velonta
Ambassador, HAPI Youth

The words we speak are reflections of how we live our lives. Some would say that a wide vocabulary and proper observance of grammar indicate higher levels of education. That is not the case. It is true, however, that the actions and beliefs we have are directly related to the words we speak and write. The words we hear become ideas. These ideas become actions.

In Satoshi Itō’s first published work Gyakusatsu Kikan (Genocidal Organ), he explores language as a means to commit genocide. On the surface, the book seems militaristic. However, in the many monologues present, it is revealed to be a representation of modern imperialism in the guise of “peacekeeping.” From this, the morality of both the ignorant and unwilling civilians, and the soldiers on the field are discussed.

The words we hear become ideas. These ideas become actions.

While the former may be the bigger focal point of the book, it is not the only message one can get from it. “The grammar of genocide,” as the antagonist puts it, is a tool for the manipulation of the masses. It affects all of humanity. Regardless of race, culture, or language, the tendency to eliminate and destroy is present inside all.

“The grammar of genocide” may be hyperbolic, but it does not stray far from the truth. In a sense, the men and women who matter to us least have the most impact on our lives. They are nothing but colored lights on a screen and voices from the radio. However, they dictate our very actions.

It becomes easy to commit atrocities because their words make it a viable option. Having planted these ideas to many, all these influencers have to do is watch as their followers do what they advocate. Violence starts from the words they speak. Those who are unlike them become victims. Those who do not support them become enemies.

Violence starts from the words they speak.

Most of these actions are put under a certain “freedom,” like speech and whatnot. However, are those actions – derived from warm lights and unfeeling sounds – really the actions of the free? Are your actions really yours?