Reading THE TELLING by Ursula K. Le Guin and Contemplating the Concept of "Control"

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The concept of "control" is a major theme in The Telling.  Attempting to control people, places, and things is a human drive that is very detrimental yet very pervasive.  Is it an instinct?  What is the purpose of it?  Is it because we are "little gods"?  In the 12-Step communities in which I participate, most people would say that we ultimately don't have control over people, places, and things.  I think this is true to a large extent, but at the same time, humans definitely CAN and do control people, places, and things on a small and a  large scale.  Example: Hitler.  This control, however, doesn't last forever and doesn't necessarily turn out the way that we want it to.

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