Journal 09: The Drowned and the Saved

We believe, rather that, that the only conclusion to be drawn is that in the face of driving necessity and physical disabilities many social habits and instincts are reduced to silence.
The book was originally titled, “If this is a man.” Throughout the story recurrence of this theme can be seen, as the reader explores the true nature of human existence and moral values. Is mere physical existence the definition of a man, or is it on the basis of a higher and more superior, spiritual and emotional level? At Auschwitz, men were stripped of their dignity, memories and very fundamental human rights. Even though physically they had still sustained themselves, their emotions had been choked. If this is what you call a man, my friend, you are sadly mistaken. Such a state is worse than our primitive ancestors or the apes we have descended from, for a man is defined by his emotional perception of life, and for his dignity and self esteem. When all this is completely crushed, all that remains is the body, a cage for the soul that yearns for emancipation. Survival at Auschwitz was a persistent struggle to save oneself from being lost in entirety and to preserve the remaining iota of humanity present in oneself. It was an unrelenting struggle, since everyone was alone and had to compete for survival, keeping one’s knowledge of a special method to oneself. Survival meant a fierce competition, where one’s individuality was more superior to oneself, in contrast to a collaborative effort. On the contrary, there were people who submitted themselves to the ordain at Auschwitz, and followed whatever was told to them. They formed the drowned component, and could not be saved. This also shows the belief systems of the detainees. While some chose to adapt their beliefs to their circumstances, others obliterated every belief they had.
This whole concept of the “Measure of a Man,” brings to my mind the lyrics from a song of the same name by Clay Aiken. Even though the remaining stanzas may be an ode to love, this particular section shows that humanity is about clutching on to one’s belief systems, whether it be with respect to love, religion, education or any other strata of life.
He never gives up
Let's go of his dreams
His world goes around
For his one true belief
Is that how you know?
Is that what it means?