Reader's Guide - Malcolm

[Tracy]

6. Malcolm wonders if he'd be happier fighting outside the system as a Leveller than inside as an MP.
What do you think?

[Kimberly]

I don't think Malcolm would be happier. He believes the only way to effect lasting change is by using the system and passing laws that will govern the nation to its better self. I think Malcolm get frustrated with the system. The amount of time needed to pass laws (then it can be rescinded) as well as enforcement of them. Having said that, I think he sees the freedom in pushing an idea of the people more forcefully instead of diplomatically. Hoping the people will rise up and laws be changed or enacted to match the people's wishes. Yet he still feels voices need to be in the seat of power (even the opposition) to fight in Parliament for the things that make all citizen's lives better.

This is similar to Malcolm's conversation with Raoul about why didn't he try to recruit him instead of letting him work for Carfax. Malcolm feels Raoul was more true to himself that he was working Carfax. He also knows his beliefs more align with Raoul's as well, but as Raoul said, Malcolm would have loss parts of himself working in the shadows against his country.

[Betty]

Great comment, Kim! I am in total agreement with you. Malcolm would not be able to be at peace with himself if he worked completely outside the system.

[Tracy]

Betty wrote: "Great comment, Kim! I am in total agreement with you. Malcolm would not be able to be at peace with himself if he worked completely outside the system."

Kimberly wrote: "I don't think Malcolm would be happier. He believes the only way to effect lasting change is by using the system and passing laws that will govern the nation to its better self. I think Malcolm get..."

Great comments from both of you. I'm not sure I agree entirely though. I think Malcolm is questioning the best way to achieve a lasting effect and whether that is through the system. We see taht in the "why didn't you recruit me?' talk with Raoul and in their talk in TAVISTOCK where Malcolm if he'd be better off as a Leveller. I think Malcolm recognizes the need for people both working within the system and trying to nudge it along from outside, but he is more and more questioning where he can be most effective.