TWO WORLD SOCIETIES (The Emperor)

While reading the short passage from The Emperor, I was really fascinated by the explanation and comparison between two common world societies, high and low class ones. Ryszard Kapuscinski starts describing the meeting of the presidents, who were invited by the Emperor to his palace. Each decoration, individual, or provisions are illustrated as the most magnificent and stylish things existed at that period of time. For the guests, this could be one of the most imperative events happening within society. All was focused in the representation of extravagance and high quality.
“Mountains of meat, fruit, fish, and cheese rose on the tables. Many-layered cakes dripped with sweet, colored icing. Distinguished wines spread reflected colors and invigorating aromas. The music played on, and costumed clowns did somersaults to the delight of the carefree revelers... It was a splendid affair.”

At the other hand, one character decides to depart the party for one instant. While having a walk through the palace, a peculiar situation gets his attention. All food which was left on the dishes by the guests was thrown over to some beggars. “I watched the crowd devour the scraps, bones, and fish heads with laborious concentration”. Here’s where we can see the other part of society, low class or poor people, getting satisfied with leftovers of the upper part of society. This is the perfect example to make society realize that food isn’t a toy, since it’s a privilege to have it. You can’t waste food, because all individuals need it for the same reason, to survive.

This short event isn’t a unique one, now days, societies are still socially divided, since money and power are still observed as the representation of superiority. This isn’t going to be changed, but what should be improved is the use of important things either from high or low class humanity. Food, water or money can be in all individual’s hands, as long as a good use is always done.