Author Samuel R. Delaney, in his novel Babel-17, is able to suggest that a more critical and creative way of thinking is best developed from a well-rounded mind. It is of a mind that is able to become engaged in a non-linear method of thinking, that Delany infers, is one open to communication that allows for personal and cultural integration. Moreover, Rydra Wong and the language of Babel-17 both throw communication on its head as each uses the power of language in order to achieve differing results. Conversely, a holistic method of thinking displays the potential that exists in being able to manipulate how others think. An example of this is alluded to by Babel-17 and the influence that it maintains on the Butcher. The end result highlighting …show more content…
4), Rydra Wong is able use her telepathy and knowledge of language to blur the distinction between the sciences and allow for extensive problem solving. One of the most impactful examples from the novel is when Rydra is able to get her ship out of danger “From the word for ‘Great Circle’ in another language”(p.68). Rydra states, “We have to go to another language in order to think about the problem clearly without going through…roundabout paths”(p.69). As curious as this sounds to some individuals, Delany wants to get the readers pensive. By using her ability to think comprehensively she is able to find a solution to a catastrophic event that everyone else has resigned impossible to escape from. It shows that by not restricting ones’ knowledge of other subjects as irrelevant to the task at hand, it can allow for unexpected and facile solutions to even the most complex of problems. This way of thinking also highlights the ingenuity that comes about from a holistic approach. Another example encompassing this approach would be Rydra translating what the Discorporates say into Basque so as to communicate without any other devices (p. 83). This is extremely relevant in modern society since people are pointing and shying away from the humanities as they feel they are less relevant. Delany instead presents a different argument. It is best to dabble in other subjects and with different types of people in order to facilitate ingenuity and …show more content…
The conversations that unfurl are indicators of the importance of functioning as a balanced individual that allow for a more aggregated society, exemplified by Rydra Wong. A prime example from the novel would be pertaining to and dealing with the character development of the Customs Officer, Danil D. Appleby. Upon learning of the tripling up of Ron, Calli, and their former navigator One, Customs calls them “Perverts” this being said out of a lack of understanding (P.143). Oddly enough Delany doesn’t allow for this miscommunication and close-minded way of thinking to continue. Rydra, being representative of the ideal diplomat, knows the exchanging of words had not been intended solely as an insult. By having this exchange, it allows for a dialog to be opened upon what is “normal” and “right”. Delany ultimately wants to get the reader to analyze why some of their social perceptions of ‘taboo’ activities are so. Due to the ambiguity of language and of personal experiences, what one considers normal may not be a suitable explanation for what others may regard as normalcy. The author addresses this common miscommunication, and even later goes back to reintroduce the Customs Officer. As a now more broad-minded person indicative of the self integration that has transpired, Customs says that Rydra was able to inspire this change in him because, “She managed to say so much to me in that