The Conqueror's Flaw -- Philosophy's Main Villain (Poem)
Updated: Aug 18
Poem Analysis by Mr. J. Igwe and Co.
The Conqueror's Flaw is a poem that explores the philosophical themes of existentialism, ambition, human nature, and the pursuit of meaning. The poem identifies conquest as a central human drive, suggesting that the pursuit of goals, achievements, and ambitions is inherent to our nature.
However, this relentless pursuit brings an unquenchable thirst, leaving the individual in a perpetual state of dissatisfaction. The poem draws parallels between this endless cycle and the myth of Sisyphus, who is condemned to push a boulder uphill for eternity, only for it to roll back down each time he reaches the top.
The poem introduces an existential dilemma between Alexander the Great and philosopher Diogenes, who both represent the counterpoint of philosophy and skepticism. Alexander declares that he will be satisfied only when the world is his, while Diogenes sees through the emptiness of this ambition.
The conqueror's flaw lies in the belief that external success can fulfill internal desires. The poem critiques this notion by highlighting that even in moments of triumph, "the heart, the mind, can still remain holey," leaving one to feel as if "none was done."
This perspective reflects the existential belief that life's meaning is not automatically provided by accomplishments or conquests, but rather must be created and defined individually.
The poem also explores the inevitable encounter with death, another prominent theme in existential philosophy. The conqueror may rule over life, but death remains beyond anyone's control. This underscores the absurdity of human existence, as expressed in the philosophy of figures like Albert Camus. Life, with all its ambitions and achievements, ultimately leads to the grave, forcing humans to confront their limitations.
The poem adopts a more stoic attitude towards life's absurdity, suggesting that even though death is guaranteed, one can still create a meaningful story through the process of living.
There is an element of defiance in this acceptance, as the speaker chooses to become "a slave to what I crave," acknowledging that while we may not escape our fate, we can still actively shape our experience of life.
Philosophy is portrayed as an endless quest for understanding, yet one that offers no definitive answers. The poem contrasts hedonism with a more calculated, rational approach to life, advocating for a life of purpose and reflection over one of fleeting indulgence.
In conclusion, The Conqueror's Flaw embodies a philosophical reflection on ambition and existence, critiquing the notion that external success can fulfill internal needs and presenting life as an absurd journey where one must find meaning in action, despite the inevitability of death.
The Poem Itself
All conquest begins with a goal.
That is the meaning/essence of conquering.
Why settle for less, when you can strive for more?
And even so,
Once more is achieved,
The heart may still thirst,
As if none occurred.
Alexander the Great told Philosopher Diogenes:
Diogenes laughed and told to his dog:
Each achievement, while noble and/or helpful,
Won't necessarily make one's heart successful:
To smile in red,
Even in a smiling day,
The night might still bring you to melancholy,
Because regardless of your conquests,
The heart, the mind, can still remain holey,
As if, none, was done...
As if you sat, and never did run.
Then, why do anything,
Not enough for serenity,
Not enough for true satisfaction.
Nothing assures anything,
Because the future is unclear,
Like a man after too much beer.
And yet, I strive, out of fear,
To not leave. To remain here.
As I felt no belonging,
To no group or nation.
Tempting, while foolish,
To ponder of what is after,
Hundreds of articles conquered,
Who could've known,
That the pursuit of existential justification,
Is a Sisyphus's task of its own?
I don't want to die,
But I do want to see it through,
That my life will end as best as it can.
For it is not something to experience,
But to unmask, as the lifelong task.
The "fuller life" of hedonism is too vain,
For this Rubinshtein.
Addicting and uncertain like gambling.
It only reminds me of my cosmic loneliness.
I prefer, instead, to plan ahead,
I will use my irrational aspects,
To build an empire of rationality.
So you'll all read high quality material,
Such as this.
I accepted my fate,
For at the height of conquest,
It is too late.
I will never not be satisfied,
Even when at my best.
Even if you'll say my name.
I won't be happy.
My overcharged mind will not be at rest,
It's how my goals I conquer,
How I'm to last.
Life is a story of how one came to defeat,
Whether you think from the head,
Or from the feet.
We all have anvils waiting to smash us to the ground,
And although the time is mostly not known or found,
The deal of life is to receive the final pound,
To the grave.
I choose to become a slave,
To what I crave.
But death is something one can't absolutely mastermind.
Conquer your ambitions,
Or whine while lagging behind.
That is the Conqueror's flaw,
And that is why we're all, to it, bow.
You can't do anything else
To fully prevent you-know-how,
So just do something -- on distraction's behalf.
Kill time, if you wish to escape,
An absurdity that searches for you,
And make it ask you: Why you're alive, too?
Only for questions require much coffee.
Frustration is the game,
Life is its name.
Admit the truth,
Even if it's underneath your boot.
Gain some loot,
With or without a suit.
Inherit it to a person like food.
You will die,
At least die good.
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