Chapter 1: The Essence of Rage

Rage Against the Machine

An origin story

"What does the billboard proclaim? Come join us, forget about the cause." — Rage Against the Machine

If distractions can envelop us in waves, we may manipulate the masses to fulfill our desires. This notion echoes Mr. Huxley's contemplations—not articulated but deeply felt, as if his mind buzzes with electric clarity. Despotism flourishes when the populace empowers its rulers. Mr. Huxley contends that a totalitarian regime's aim is to cultivate a love for servitude among its citizens.

"But what, Tom inquires, does servitude appear to be?"

Mr. Huxley retorts that it might be utterly invisible. The most nefarious form of servitude can emerge as a harmless array of diversions that consume an individual’s time and energy. He outlines a vision where totalitarianism can persist and prosper, identifying four essential elements: enhanced methods for indoctrinating youth, a system for assigning individuals to societal roles, a substance more potent yet less damaging than heroin, and a robust eugenics program.

Evidently, Mr. Huxley, communicating through thoughts rather than speech, projects his reflections into the future while being rooted in the past. Yet, he overlooks the simplicity of the matter. Depending on one’s interpretation of slavery, it could manifest as surrendering to a cyclical system and acquiescing to a glamorized existence. It could also be about crafting an enticing narrative filled with themes of freedom and nationalism, telling tales of what people can do without genuinely enabling them to take action.

"Anger is a gift." — Rage Against the Machine

At times, Mr. Huxley asserts, our anger serves as the only force potent enough to rouse us from our passive compliance. Having glimpsed the future's technological landscape and its societal behaviors, I now recognize a clearer truth. While substances certainly dull our awareness, they are not fundamentally required. People need not be subdued; they merely need to be guided into an alternate reality—a state of distraction where they can mobilize against a contrived agenda. The authorities need not extinguish their efforts; they merely redirect them.

Mr. Huxley fiddles with a cigarette and loosens his tie, easing the pressure on his throat. He absentmindedly reaches for peanuts, tossing them into his mouth.

Tom craves clarity, packaged neatly in a shiny box with a bow. Yet, understanding often arrives like rocks falling from bridges—through upheaval and revolution. How else does change occur?

"I hear," he coughs, "what I think I’m hearing," Tom begins, "is that I—the citizens—are being steered toward different pursuits."

Mr. Huxley responds, though his lips remain still, "It's more about granting you an alternate life to fulfill your need for control and your desire for change."

"But isn't that… meaningless, I suppose?"

Speaking into emptiness rarely yields meaning. Mr. Huxley, at this moment, embodies a blend of condescending arrogance, much like spiders crawling up a pyramid.

He grabs another handful of peanuts, chewing them down, then takes a swig from his water bottle.

Mr. Huxley continues, "There’s no necessity to stifle individuals from being themselves."

"Who are they?" Tom queries.

"They're inquisitive, yet simple—eager to accept the simplest explanations. Provide them with a facade of reality and encourage their actions, and they'll engage in trivial debates. They perceive the tangible world, which is the deception."

"Surely someone must recognize the falsehood of this… reality."

"Of course," Mr. Huxley chuckles, his lips unmoving. "The seers recognize it. They understand the artifice. However, the system knows it cannot halt the flow of information. They contaminate the discourse with falsehoods, allowing the seers to disseminate misinformation, and keeping the masses subdued or inciting riots over superficial novelties in this illusion."

"Who governs the past shapes the future. Who oversees the present molds the past." — Rage Against the Machine

Tom falls into a long, uncomfortable silence, but Mr. Huxley remains untroubled. He is beyond presence—almost ethereal.

"Don't be foolish about it. There's little merit in worry. Understanding is often overrated. Now you see the stars as mere glowing dots on a web. You’ve never noticed it before, and you can’t unsee it now. Awareness complicates existence."

Tom longs for something genuine, not cloaked in superficiality. He desires to commit to a cause.

"I’m unsure where to begin."

"It’s alright," Mr. Huxley reassures him. "Every journey must commence somewhere. This spot is as good as any. There’s an entire circle at the mountain’s base. Begin wherever you wish, and you’ll reach the summit. Isn’t that a comforting thought?"

Tom reflects, yet struggles to move. He strums his guitar and glances at the garage door as it begins to rise. Sunlight pours in, illuminating the dust motes, and Zach enters, mic stand in hand.

"Did you bring it?" Tom asks.

"Of course," Zach replies. "Why do you look so odd?"

"I was just having a conversation."

"With yourself?"

Tom scans for Mr. Huxley. Gone, as expected. "Yeah," he admits, "by myself… I suppose." He smiles. "I might have an idea for our band's name."

Roman Newell is currently focused on his debut novel — 20XX — a magical realism project that delves into the intricacies and conflicts of contemporary societies amidst shifting social norms, rapidly advancing technology, and traumatic impacts. Subscribe to Roman's Substack to join the 20XX mailing list.

Chapter 2: The Soundtrack of Rebellion

In this chapter, we will explore the musical backdrop of societal discontent.

The first video showcases "Rage Against The Machine - Killing In the Name," a powerful anthem about defiance and resistance against oppressive systems. The track's intensity serves as a rallying cry, urging listeners to question authority and challenge the status quo.

The second video features "Rage Against The Machine - Bulls On Parade," which critiques militarism and consumerism. The song's driving rhythm and poignant lyrics encapsulate the spirit of protest, resonating with those who seek change in a chaotic world.