That's so, said the judge. They do not have to have a reason. But order is not set aside because of their indifference.
The quote from Cormac McCarthy's "Blood Meridian, or the Evening Redness in the West" reflects a fundamental understanding of authority and order within a chaotic environment. The judge asserts that decisions can be made without justification, highlighting the arbitrary nature of power and control. It suggests that order persists despite a lack of concern from those in charge, underscoring the indifferent nature of authority figures. This indifference indicates a brutal reality where decisions are dictated without the need for moral reasoning.
The judge's statement encapsulates the themes of violence and apathy that permeate McCarthy's work. It calls into question the legitimacy of order imposed by those who lead, emphasizing that power can exist devoid of empathy or rationale. This reflects a grim worldview where humanity's innate disregard for one another can shape the social landscape, making the struggle for justice appear futile. The assertion that order endures regardless of leaders' indifference highlights a tragic acceptance of brutality as a part of existence.
