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But International 4-8818 are different. They are a tall, strong youth and their eyes are like fireflies, for there is laughter in their eyes.
Here, Equality 7-2521 describes International 4-8818’s appearance and hints at his vibrant inner personality. Readers may note that the Transgressor of the Unspeakable Word also shares these features. In
So International 4-8818 and we have never spoken of it. But we know. We know, when we look into each other’s eyes.
Equality 7-2521 reveals that he and International 4-8818 are friends, a punishable offense since the state of friendship denotes preference for one person over another, which is against the law. When International 4-8818 and Equality 7-2521 look into each other’s eyes, however, they cannot help but acknowledge their special bond, suggesting that no matter how oppressive, a collectivist society cannot suppress natural bonds.
“It is forbidden,” they answered.
International 4-8818 feels hesitant to go down to the tunnel he and Equality 7-2521 have just discovered. Here, he declares the obvious—entering the tunnel is forbidden, and he doesn’t want to break the law. International 4-8818 shares Equality 7-2521’s curiosity, but his desire to stay safe remains stronger.
They were frightened, but they stood by and watched us go.
Equality 7-2521 explains that International 4-8818 watched him enter the tunnel, even though International 4-8818 felt frightened and uncomfortable. Yet despite his apprehension, International 4-8818 doesn’t try to prevent Equality 7-2521 from going into the tunnel and eventually follows him in. International 4-8818 clearly feels torn between his desire to remain a law-abiding citizen and his loyalty to his friend.
Rather would we die.
International 4-8818 answers after Equality 7-2521 asks International 4-8818 if he would report him to the Council for going into the tunnel and witness him being lashed to death. International 4-8818’s response highlights his intense love and devotion to Equality 7-2521, a love that surpasses his intense fear of the Council.
