(2)Madden: Rushdie's "Haroun and the Sea of Stories"

On pp. 120-121, Haroun questions why Bolo's ambition to war is so steadfast. Mali answers him by saying, "It is love...It is all for love. Which is wonderful and dashing matter. But which can also be a very foolish thing." While this statement is true just in general, this novel is full of little bits of wisdom warning against extremism: it is largely a theme in this book and in the handouts from class. Religious extremism especially comes to mind in this dialogue, as Bolo is willing to sacrifice himself and his people in war for a matter of the heart; reminiscent of a Muslim's duty to Allah, as carried out through suicide bombings. Bolo does not ponder any other path and is more than a little surprised when the other Gups mention the Ocean's importance in the war as well. Rushdie seems to suggest that all else can fall to the wayside when one is in love or enamored with unextinguishable desire; which is only to be quenched when reciprocated or when one extinguishes oneself. Like the Scarecrow says, love can be a great and joyous thing; but it is also a two headed shark, each with razor-teeth.