Even torture that is only verbal reinforce the power of the torturer: The prisoner's imagination leads him to dread the next round of interrogations. And when it happens, the feeling of inferiority becomes more acute; it bores into the brain, and the cultural and psychological defenses that surround the brain disintegrate and vanish. The ego is dissolved.
In Elie Wiesel's book "Hostage," the author explores the profound psychological impact of torture, emphasizing how even verbal torment can reinforce the torturer's power. The anticipation of the next interrogation instills a sense of dread in the prisoner, heightening feelings of inferiority. This constant fear erodes the prisoner's mental defenses, leading to a gradual dissolution of their sense of self.
The description captures the devastating effect of this experience on the individual. As the prisoner's ego disintegrates, they become increasingly vulnerable to the manipulations of the torturer, illustrating the cruel dynamics of power and control in such horrific situations.
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All the things you can talk about in anyone's work are the things that are least important.
Race of Cain, ascend to heaven, And cast God down upon the earth!
