An Abstract of History – The Words in the Stone Within the book ONE is an expression of the innate tendency of civilizations to descend into tyranny. The story is philosophical, written in allegory with parables and riddles. It begins with a “Tower of Babel,” and it ends with a “Tower of Babel.” In between is a shadow of world history. It is for this reason, the storyline is not contrived as much as it is comprehended, conceptualized, and then communicated in the abstract. The book ONE is also no less than two stories told with one set of words. It is a writing that must be deciphered, and which, in many instances contains multiple meanings.
The objective of the story is to present a picture of invisible principles by bringing them into mental imagery through physical representations. This is done with an array of diverse beasts and creatures; which, although they are endowed with human like attributes, at the same time, they reflect the animalistic nature of humanity.
As for the title, ONE represents a total consolidation—the united plurality of a totalitarian system. It is a monopoly of power on top and the subjugation of all beneath. It is the cord binding the axe with the rods to create a fasces consisting of masters, servants, and slaves. It is a synthesis of all and the suppression of nonconformity.
Throughout history, civilizations, societies, and cultures have endeavored to achieve oneness. Within them all, regardless of their time or appearance, the same motivators were at work, often causing conflicts between them. These motivators remain unchanged by time even as societies, cultures, and civilizations come and go; it is only faces that change. What remains is the ambition of ONE: to rule without challenge—and the seduction of ONE: the willingness to empower a supreme ruling authority out of insecurity, hoping to find sufficiency in servitude and some reward in bondage.
Today also, the same forces drive those who seek the complete surrender or total demise of all others who stand contrary to them. They may present themselves as cruel and fearless conquerors, or as caring humble servants. They may come in the name of love or hate. They may be practitioners of barbarity or the artists of sophistry. Their rhetoric may either threaten with destruction, or seduce with promises of hope and change. Regardless, this is the nature of the totalitarian.
On the side opposing the totalitarians reside those who are committed to resisting tyranny at any cost. They are almost always outnumbered; yet, they are never broken. This aspect of an unfaltering faith and a love for Truth is the crux of the story ONE. If it is not the most prolific component throughout the book, it is still the fundament.
At first glance, the impression may be that the allegorical story of ONE is intended for a younger audience. The fact is, while certain characteristics of the book may be presented in a fashion that would appeal to a younger set, it will often be the experienced and more knowledgeable reader that will grasp obscurities and the deeper bits contained in the writing. Regardless, the hope is that anyone who reads the book will be able to take from its story as much as they are able and walk away with a better understanding of life, human nature, and of our world. I would also hope that in light of the present darkness, inspiration and hope may be imparted to strengthen, encourage, and reassure in the days ahead those who read it.
