Rather, it overshadows all the mundane aspects of life. Keane is aware of this overarching influence, and the history of Havel becomes a history of politics in Czechoslovakia, with many chapters devoted fully to the topic. One example occurs near the beginning of the biography, when Havel is still a child. The politicians, flanked by journalists, formally declare the wings of violence to be clipped. Men of religion remind the faithful that peacemakers are blessed, and that where there is peace, there is God.
Moralists agree that peace is the elevating and healing face of the world.
But seated at his desk at his parents' country house at Havlov, a little boy trembled. Juxtapositions of history and life events such as this one give added layers and context to Havel's story. Keane intends to create a political tragedy out of life events, showing the decline of Havel's status due to his own failings. But Havel is no Oedipus Rex, and the tragedy contained within this work seems to not be tragedy at all, but merely unfortunate life occurrences. Tragedy requires that characters create their own downfall, where, in this case, no downfall has yet occurred.