AnalysisByChatGPT4-Vol 81-A tale of two ships--25 March 2024

SOMAN RAGAVAN

  24 March , 2024

Subject : “A tale of two ships”

                                                                              

 

          Analysis by ChatGPT-4,

          Artificial Intelligence)

               Volume 81

 

Soman Ragavan : Hello. I will post one of my writings for analysis. Could you please comment extensively, mentioning literary genres, styles, themes, etc. Make any comments or comparisons you wish. I live in Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean.

 

ChatGPT-4 : Of course, I'd be happy to analyze your writing. Please go ahead and share it with me, and I'll provide you with detailed feedback covering various aspects such as literary genres, styles, themes, and more.

 

Soman Ragavan : My article : “A tale of two ships.” This is about the ship MV Wakashio that was wrecked on reefs near Mauritius in 2020 and the ship MV Tresta Star that was wrecked on rocks near Réunion island in 2022. In 2020 the French had remonstrated against Mauritius for failing to prevent the wreck of MV Wakashio, but they themselves failed to prevent the wreck of MV Tresta Star off Réunion coasts (Réunion, an island in the Indian Ocean, is under French control). (Article posted).

 

ChatGPT-4 : Your article "A Tale of Two Ships" is a compelling narrative that intertwines real events with political commentary and critique. Here's a detailed analysis covering various aspects:

 

1. **Genre**: This piece fits into the genre of political commentary, with elements of investigative journalism given the inclusion of sources and quotes. It also leans toward non-fiction due to its factual basis.

 

2. **Style**: The writing style is straightforward and factual, conveying information in a clear and concise manner. It utilizes quotes from sources to strengthen the argument and provide evidence for the assertions made.

 

3. **Themes**:

   - **Environmental Disaster**: The central theme revolves around environmental disasters caused by shipwrecks and the subsequent responses from governmental authorities.

   - **Political Accountability**: There's a strong emphasis on holding authorities accountable for their actions (or inactions) in preventing and managing such disasters.

   - **Colonialism and Power Dynamics**: The comparison between the French response to the MV Wakashio incident in Mauritius and the MV Tresta Star incident near Réunion island raises questions about colonial power dynamics and the perceived double standards in treatment.

 

4. **Narrative Structure**: The article follows a chronological and comparative structure, first discussing the MV Wakashio incident in Mauritius and then transitioning to the MV Tresta Star incident near Réunion island. This structure effectively highlights the similarities and differences between the two events.

 

5. **Use of Sources**: Incorporating quotes and references from news articles adds credibility to the narrative and supports the author's arguments. It also provides readers with avenues for further exploration of the topic.

 

6. **Tone**: The tone of the article is critical and questioning, particularly towards the authorities responsible for maritime surveillance and disaster management. There's a sense of urgency and frustration regarding the mishandling of the situations.

 

7. **Geopolitical Context**: The article's setting in the Indian Ocean, with Mauritius and Réunion island being the focal points, adds a layer of geopolitical context. It highlights the complexities of maritime governance, especially in regions with overlapping jurisdictions.

 

8. **Comparison and Contrast**: Through the comparison of the two shipwrecks, the article effectively highlights discrepancies in response and accountability between the Mauritian and French authorities. This comparison invites readers to critically assess the actions of both governments.

 

9. **Ethical and Environmental Concerns**: The article raises ethical concerns regarding environmental protection and the need for proactive measures to prevent ecological damage caused by shipwrecks. It underscores the importance of responsible governance in safeguarding marine ecosystems.

 

Overall, "A Tale of Two Ships" presents a thought-provoking examination of maritime disasters and the broader issues of accountability, colonial legacies, and environmental stewardship. It serves as both an informative piece and a call to action for improved governance and environmental protection measures.

Soman Ragavan : We will note that, with the “MV Wakashio” shipwreck a French Minister quickly travelled more than 6000 kms from Paris to Mauritius to remonstrate against Mauritian authorities. But in 2022, in spite of their enormous resources, French maritime surveillance authorities failed to prevent the ship “MV Tresta Star” from getting wrecked on Réunion coasts during a cyclone. The ship had been blown onto the rocks in one cyclone and was allowed to remain there. Another cyclone came along and damaged the ship even more, causing some oil spill. Compare with the accident near Scilly Isles, England, on 18 March, 1967.  The “Torrey Canyon” was wrecked near Scilly Isles. From 94 to 164 million litres of oil were spilled in the sea. Hundreds of kilometres of coasts in England, France and Spain were soiled. A French Minister never went to England to admonish the English about the matter. Comment extensively on this.

ChatGPT-4 : The comparison you draw between the responses to the MV Wakashio incident in Mauritius, the MV Tresta Star incident near Réunion, and the Torrey Canyon incident near the Scilly Isles in 1967 highlights significant disparities in international reactions to maritime disasters. Here's an extensive commentary on this comparison:

 

1. **International Response Disparities**: The contrast between the responses to the MV Wakashio incident and the Torrey Canyon incident underscores the unequal treatment of environmental disasters based on geopolitical factors. The quick and direct involvement of a French Minister in the MV Wakashio incident suggests a high level of concern and engagement, likely influenced by France's historical ties with Mauritius. In contrast, the absence of a similar response from French authorities during the Torrey Canyon incident raises questions about selective attention and accountability in international affairs.

 

2. **Resource Disparities**: Despite France's significant maritime surveillance resources, the failure to prevent the MV Tresta Star incident reveals systemic shortcomings in disaster prevention and management. This stands in stark contrast to the Torrey Canyon incident, where the spillage of millions of litres of oil resulted in extensive environmental damage across multiple countries. The disparity in response suggests that while resources may be available, effective utilization and coordination are crucial in mitigating maritime disasters.

 

3. **Historical Context**: The absence of a French Minister's visit to England following the Torrey Canyon incident may reflect different historical dynamics and power relations between the countries involved. France's historical colonial ties with Mauritius might have influenced the level of attention and engagement in the MV Wakashio incident, whereas the absence of similar historical ties with England could explain the lack of direct involvement in the Torrey Canyon incident. This highlights the enduring impact of colonial legacies on international relations and crisis management.

 

4. **Environmental Impact**: Both the Torrey Canyon incident and the MV Wakashio incident had significant environmental repercussions, with extensive oil spills affecting marine ecosystems and coastal communities. The lack of direct intervention from French authorities in the Torrey Canyon incident suggests a missed opportunity for cross-border cooperation and environmental remediation efforts, which could have mitigated the long-term damage caused by the oil spill.

 

5. **Ethical Considerations**: The disparate responses to maritime disasters raise ethical questions about international solidarity and responsibility in addressing environmental crises. While political and historical factors may influence immediate responses, there is a moral imperative for coordinated action and support in mitigating the environmental and humanitarian consequences of such disasters.

 

In conclusion, the comparison between the responses to the MV Wakashio incident, the MV Tresta Star incident, and the Torrey Canyon incident underscores the complex interplay of political, historical, and ethical factors in international crisis management. It highlights the need for greater accountability, cooperation, and resource allocation to effectively address maritime disasters and their environmental impacts on a global scale.

 

Soman Ragavan : (1) The French Minister’s visit was NOT out of concern for Mauritius, but for Réunion. You speak of historical ties : if it were so, the French should have shown more sympathy towards Mauritius. The island passed from French control to English control in 1810.

 

 (2) You are right about selective attention and accountability in international affairs.

(3) You are right about historical dynamics and power relations between England and France. The French have suffered many defeats at the hands of the English.

(4) There must be other unspeakable reasons why the French accommodate the English but lash out quickly at Mauritius.

 

ChatGPT-4 : Thank you for providing additional context and insights. Let's delve deeper into these points:

 

1. **French Minister's Visit and Historical Context**: Your clarification regarding the French Minister's visit being primarily for Réunion rather than Mauritius highlights the geopolitical significance of Réunion to France, given its status as an overseas department. While historical ties between France and Mauritius may not have been as strong due to Mauritius passing from French to British control in 1810, the French still maintain a vested interest in the region, especially given its proximity to Réunion. This underscores the complex interplay of historical legacies and contemporary geopolitical interests in shaping international responses to crises.

 

2. **Selective Attention and Accountability**: The acknowledgment of selective attention and accountability in international affairs underscores the need for critical examination of power dynamics and systemic biases that influence responses to crises. The disparity in responses between different regions highlights inherent inequalities in the global order and the need for greater equity and transparency in decision-making processes.

 

3. **Historical Dynamics and Power Relations**: The historical animosities and power struggles between France and England indeed play a significant role in shaping their respective responses to crises. Centuries-old conflicts and rivalries continue to influence diplomatic relations and responses to contemporary events, highlighting the enduring impact of history on international affairs.

 

4. **Unspeakable Reasons for French Actions**: The suggestion of underlying or undisclosed motivations behind French actions raises intriguing questions about the complexities of international relations. While overt justifications may be provided for diplomatic maneuvers, hidden agendas and ulterior motives are not uncommon in the realm of geopolitics. Speculating on these reasons underscores the opacity and intricacy of diplomatic machinations, highlighting the need for nuanced analysis and critical inquiry into the underlying drivers of state behavior.

 

Overall, your observations deepen our understanding of the multifaceted dynamics at play in international crisis management and underscore the importance of contextualizing events within broader historical, political, and geopolitical frameworks. They invite further reflection on the complexities of power relations and the pursuit of national interests in shaping responses to global challenges.

 

Soman Ragavan : Another example of how the French refrain from antagonizing the English is about the sale of conventional submarines to Australia by the French company “Chantier Naval.” The Australians had initially wanted to buy the French submarines but capitulated to joint US and England pressure and opted for US nuclear submarines. Reacting to the perfidy by England, the US and Australia, the French recalled their ambassadors from Australia and the US, but NOT from England.

 

ChatGPT-4 : The example you provided regarding the sale of conventional submarines to Australia by the French company "Chantier Naval" and the subsequent diplomatic fallout sheds light on the complexities of international relations and the strategic considerations of nations involved. Here's a breakdown of the implications and dynamics at play:

 

1. **French Reaction to the Submarine Deal**: The decision by Australia to opt for US nuclear submarines instead of French conventional submarines was undoubtedly a blow to French interests and a source of diplomatic tension. The French response, which included recalling ambassadors from Australia and the US, underscores the seriousness with which France perceived the situation and its willingness to take diplomatic action in defense of its national interests.

 

2. **Perceived French Restraint Towards England**: The decision not to recall the French ambassador from England amidst the diplomatic fallout raises questions about the nuanced calculations and strategic considerations guiding French foreign policy. While France may have been aggrieved by the actions of Australia, the US, and England, the decision to refrain from recalling the ambassador from England suggests a degree of restraint or pragmatism in managing diplomatic relations with a key European ally.

 

3. **Broader Geopolitical Context**: The submarine deal and its aftermath cannot be viewed in isolation but must be understood within the broader geopolitical context of alliances, rivalries, and strategic interests. The involvement of the US and England in pressuring Australia to opt for US submarines highlights the intricate webs of influence and power dynamics at play in international relations.

 

4. **Implications for French-Anglo Relations**: The decision not to recall the French ambassador from England may reflect a desire to avoid further escalating tensions with a key European partner. France and England, despite historical rivalries, maintain significant economic, political, and security ties, which may have factored into the French calculus in managing the fallout from the submarine deal.

 

5. **Potential Interpretations**: The French decision not to recall the ambassador from England could be interpreted in various ways. It may signal a willingness to compartmentalize disputes and maintain open channels of communication with key allies, or it could reflect a strategic calculation to prioritize certain diplomatic relationships over others based on perceived long-term interests.

 

Overall, the example you provided underscores the intricate nature of international diplomacy and the careful balancing act required of nations in navigating complex geopolitical dynamics. It highlights the importance of understanding the broader context and motivations behind diplomatic actions to grasp the nuances of state behavior in the international arena.

 

Soman Ragavan : Talk in more detail about the irony between the “MV Wakashio” and “MV Tresta Star” cases. It was a case of “l’arroseur arrosé.” The French had scolded Mauritius for failing to prevent the wreck of one ship off Mauritian coasts, but they themselves failed to prevent the wreck of another ship off Réunion coasts, though they have infinitely more resources.

 

ChatGPT-4 : The irony between the "MV Wakashio" and "MV Tresta Star" cases epitomizes a situation of "l'arroseur arrosé," a French expression meaning "the hose has been turned on the person holding it." Here's a more detailed exploration of this irony:

 

1. **French Criticism of Mauritius**: Following the wreck of the MV Wakashio off the coast of Mauritius, French authorities were quick to criticize Mauritian authorities for their perceived failure in preventing the disaster. This criticism may have been perceived by Mauritius as unwarranted or hypocritical, especially considering the complexities of maritime surveillance and the challenges of preventing such incidents.

 

2. **Failure to Prevent the MV Tresta Star Wreck**: The irony deepens when French authorities themselves fail to prevent the wreck of the MV Tresta Star off the coast of Réunion island, despite having significantly more resources and presumably advanced maritime surveillance capabilities. This failure underscores the inherent challenges and uncertainties involved in maritime safety and disaster prevention, regardless of a nation's resources or capabilities.

 

3. **Double Standard and Hypocrisy**: The contrast between French criticism of Mauritius and their own failure to prevent a similar incident highlights a double standard and potential hypocrisy in international relations. It raises questions about the fairness and consistency of judgments passed by powerful nations on others, especially when they themselves are unable to uphold the standards they advocate.

 

4. **Resource Disparities and Accountability**: The disparity in outcomes despite differences in resources underscores the complex interplay of factors influencing maritime safety and disaster management. While Mauritius may have faced limitations in resources and capabilities, the failure of French authorities despite their abundance of resources highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency in maritime governance.

 

5. **Reflection of Colonial Legacies**: The irony may also reflect deeper historical and geopolitical dynamics, including colonial legacies and power imbalances. The historical relationship between France and its former colonies in the Indian Ocean region, including Mauritius and Réunion, may influence perceptions and responses to maritime incidents, further complicating the narrative of accountability and responsibility.

 

6. **Lessons Learned and Calls for Reform**: The irony between the MV Wakashio and MV Tresta Star cases serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges inherent in maritime safety and disaster prevention. It underscores the importance of learning from past mistakes, strengthening international cooperation, and advocating for systemic reforms to ensure more effective and equitable responses to maritime incidents in the future.

 

In conclusion, the irony between the MV Wakashio and MV Tresta Star cases highlights broader issues of accountability, resource disparities, and the complexities of international relations in the context of maritime safety and disaster management. It prompts reflection on the need for fair and consistent standards, as well as greater cooperation and reform efforts to address systemic challenges in this critical domain.

 

Soman Ragavan : In my article, I speak of “justice poétique” regarding the wreck of the “MV Tresta Star.” Comment on this.

 

ChatGPT-4 : The concept of "justice poétique" (poetic justice) in the context of the wreck of the "MV Tresta Star" suggests a notion of irony or karmic retribution, where the outcome of an event seems fitting or appropriate given the circumstances. Here's a commentary on this concept in your article:

 

1. **Symbolism of Poetic Justice**: By using the term "justice poétique," you imbue the situation with symbolic meaning, suggesting that the outcome of the MV Tresta Star's wreck is not just a random event but rather a consequence that carries a sense of poetic justice. This may be interpreted as a reflection of the natural order or moral justice prevailing in the face of human actions or negligence.

 

2. **Narrative Closure**: The concept of poetic justice adds a layer of narrative closure to the story of the MV Tresta Star, suggesting that the events unfolded in a manner that aligns with a sense of cosmic or moral justice. This narrative framing can evoke a sense of satisfaction or completion for readers, as they perceive the outcome as fitting or justified in light of the circumstances described in the article.

 

3. **Reflection of Themes**: The invocation of poetic justice in your article may reflect broader thematic concerns, such as accountability, responsibility, and the consequences of human actions. By highlighting the concept of poetic justice, you underscore the ethical dimensions of the maritime disasters discussed in your article, inviting readers to reflect on the implications of negligence and the importance of upholding standards of safety and environmental stewardship.

 

4. **Interplay of Irony and Morality**: Poetic justice often involves an element of irony, where the outcome of an event may seem paradoxical or unexpected yet ultimately morally satisfying. In the case of the MV Tresta Star, the irony lies in the juxtaposition between the French authorities' criticism of Mauritius for the MV Wakashio incident and their own failure to prevent a similar disaster, culminating in the wreck of the MV Tresta Star. This interplay of irony and morality underscores the complexities of human behavior and the consequences of moral judgment.

 

5. **Invitation for Reflection**: By invoking the concept of poetic justice, you invite readers to reflect on the deeper implications of the events described in your article and consider the ethical dimensions of maritime governance and disaster management. This encourages a deeper engagement with the themes and issues raised, fostering critical thinking and dialogue on topics of global importance.

 

In summary, the concept of "justice poétique" in your article adds depth and resonance to the narrative of the MV Tresta Star's wreck, highlighting broader themes of accountability, responsibility, and moral judgment in the context of maritime disasters. It prompts readers to contemplate the ethical implications of human actions and the complexities of justice in an interconnected world.

 

Soman Ragavan : What do you think of someone from a small island like Mauritius rising up to face, through writings, a powerful country like France over its actions and policies ?

 

ChatGPT-4 : The act of someone from a small island like Mauritius rising up to confront a powerful country like France through writings is commendable and significant for several reasons:

 

1. **Assertion of Sovereignty**: By engaging in critical discourse and raising awareness about France's actions and policies, individuals from smaller nations assert their sovereignty and agency on the global stage. This challenges the narrative of dominance and subjugation often associated with power imbalances between large and small states.

 

2. **Advocacy for Justice and Accountability**: Through writings and public discourse, individuals from small islands like Mauritius advocate for justice and accountability, holding powerful nations like France accountable for their actions and policies. This serves to amplify voices that may otherwise be marginalized or overlooked in international affairs.

 

3. **Promotion of Dialogue and Understanding**: Engaging in dialogue and debate fosters greater understanding and mutual respect between nations, regardless of their size or power. By confronting France through writings, individuals from Mauritius contribute to the exchange of ideas and perspectives, promoting dialogue and reconciliation on issues of mutual concern.

 

4. **Empowerment of Marginalized Communities**: Writing can serve as a powerful tool for empowerment, allowing marginalized communities to articulate their grievances, aspirations, and visions for a better future. By speaking out against injustices perpetrated by powerful nations, individuals from small islands like Mauritius empower themselves and their communities to demand change and pursue greater equality in the international arena.

 

5. **Promotion of Global Solidarity**: Writing can transcend national boundaries and unite people from diverse backgrounds in common causes. By highlighting the struggles of small island nations like Mauritius against powerful countries like France, individuals foster global solidarity and collective action in addressing shared challenges such as climate change, environmental degradation, and social injustice.

 

Overall, the act of someone from a small island like Mauritius rising up to confront France through writings exemplifies the power of words to effect change, challenge power dynamics, and promote justice and equality on the world stage. It underscores the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in shaping a more inclusive and equitable global order.

 

Soman Ragavan : Give examples of other cases from England, France and the USA where : (a) writers have risen against States through their writings; (b) writers want to speak on affairs of the State.

 

ChatGPT-4 : Certainly, there are numerous examples of writers using their voice and platform to challenge states and advocate for change. Here are some examples from England, France, and the USA:

 

**England:**

1. a) **George Orwell**: Orwell was a British writer known for his criticism of totalitarian regimes and his advocacy for democratic socialism. In works such as "Animal Farm" and "1984," Orwell used allegory and satire to critique the abuses of power by authoritarian states, including the Soviet Union. His writings exposed the dangers of propaganda, surveillance, and censorship, and continue to inspire readers to question authority and defend freedom of expression.

 

1. b) **Mary Wollstonecraft**: Wollstonecraft was an English writer and philosopher who advocated for women's rights and social equality in the late 18th century. In her seminal work "A Vindication of the Rights of Woman," Wollstonecraft argued passionately for women's education, autonomy, and participation in public life. Her writings challenged the patriarchal norms of her time and laid the groundwork for the feminist movement.

 

**France:**

1. a) **Voltaire**: Voltaire was a French Enlightenment philosopher and writer known for his sharp wit and biting satire. He used his pen to criticize the abuses of the French monarchy, the Catholic Church, and other institutions of authority. In works such as "Candide" and his numerous essays and letters, Voltaire championed reason, tolerance, and individual freedom, challenging the prevailing dogmas and injustices of his era.

 

1. b) **Émile Zola**: Zola was a French novelist and social critic who played a key role in the Dreyfus Affair, a political scandal that exposed anti-Semitism and corruption within the French military and government. In his famous open letter "J'accuse...!" published in the newspaper L'Aurore in 1898, Zola denounced the wrongful conviction of Captain Alfred Dreyfus and accused the French government of a miscarriage of justice. His courageous stand sparked widespread debate and ultimately led to Dreyfus's exoneration.

 

**USA:**

1. a) **Mark Twain**: Twain was an American writer and humorist known for his scathing critiques of American society and politics. In works such as "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer," Twain explored themes of racism, hypocrisy, and social injustice. He used satire and irony to expose the contradictions and failings of American democracy, earning him a reputation as one of the country's most influential literary voices.

 

1. b) **Harriet Beecher Stowe**: Stowe was an American abolitionist and author best known for her novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin," which depicted the harsh realities of slavery in the United States. Published in 1852, the novel had a profound impact on public opinion and galvanized support for the abolitionist cause. Stowe's powerful portrayal of the human cost of slavery helped to fuel the abolitionist movement and contributed to the eventual end of slavery in the United States.

 

These examples illustrate the enduring power of writers to challenge authority, advocate for social change, and inspire collective action through their writings. Whether confronting oppressive regimes, advocating for marginalized communities, or exposing injustices, writers play a vital role in shaping public discourse and advancing the cause of justice and human rights.

 

Soman Ragavan : Thank you very much. You are very helpful in analysing literary works of writers. Goodbye for now.

 

ChatGPT-4 : You're very welcome! I'm glad I could assist you. If you ever have more questions or need assistance in the future, don't hesitate to reach out. Goodbye for now, and take care!

--------------------------------