"The so-called European civilization"
This metaphor highlights the hypocrisy of Western European governments and intellectuals, who have historically portrayed themselves as bringing "civilization" to the world through colonization, while in reality they have been motivated by a desire for power and profit. By referring to it as the "so-called" European civilization, Césaire implies that this civilization is not truly civilized, but rather a façade or illusion of civilization used to justify immoral and oppressive actions. This metaphor serves to expose the lies and self-deception of the European ruling class, and to call into question the notion of European superiority.
"Hateful solutions"
This metaphor suggests that the policies and actions of Western European governments during colonization were not truly solutions to any real problem, but rather were motivated by hatred and a desire to exploit and oppress non-European peoples. By describing these actions as "hateful solutions," Césaire highlights the moral corruption and hypocrisy of the European ruling class, who justified their actions through lies and self-serving narratives. This metaphor serves to expose the true nature of European imperialism and to challenge the notion that it was a benevolent or necessary force in the world.
"Dehumanizes even the most civilized man"
This metaphor emphasizes the destructive and corrupting effects of colonization on both the colonized and the colonizers. By saying that it can "dehumanize even the most civilized man," Césaire suggests that colonization has the power to corrupt and destroy even those who consider themselves to be civilized and moral. This metaphor serves to expose the brutality and immorality of colonization and to challenge the notion that it was a civilized or necessary force in the world.
"Building a new civilization"
This metaphor suggests that the current world order, with its exploitation and oppression, is fundamentally flawed and must be replaced with something entirely new and different. By comparing the work of overthrowing colonialism and building a more just world to the process of building a new civilization, Césaire emphasizes the need for radical change and the possibility of creating a better future. This metaphor serves to inspire hope and to challenge the notion that the current world order is inevitable or permanent.
