4. How is Orwell's desire when he sees the elephant different from the crowd's desire?

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Yasmine Hamilton

6 January, 06:45

4. How is Orwell's desire when he sees the elephant different from the crowd's desire?

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Answers (1)

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Marlene Ho · Answer 1

The crowd wants to see Orwell shoot and kill the elephant, but he does not want to.

Explanation:

Orwell states that one should not shoot a working elephant because it's like shooting an expensive piece of machinery. Also, he believes his attack of "must" is wearing off, as the elephant is calmly eating. Orwell feels that he will just wander off. Shooting the elephant for Orwell is symbolic of his role as a colonial police officer. He doesn't want to be there; he doesn't want to act the part of an agent of imperialism, but he has no choice. Orwell has to kill the elephant; he has to show the natives that he won't hesitate to use force, whether it's against a raging elephant or a crowd of restless Burmese engaged in public disorder. However, even if the Burmese are overawed by his authority as a police officer, they will always resent him. If he doesn't shoot the elephant, then he'll be considered weak as well as remaining a figure of hate.