In Orwell’s account, it seems that the Burmese have the power. As we have read  previously, it is the powerful that have the most to lose. Once Orwell takes on the role of superiority, he “wears a mask and his face grows to fit it”. When face and mask are one in the same, the powerful are nothing if the don’t live up to the persona that is feared by the populace. Orwell shot the elephant “solely to avoid looking a fool”, even adding that he was secretly against those who oppressed the Burmese. This situation highlights the humanity in politics and the ways in which people make difficult decisions to save face and to avoid the vulnerability of embarrassment. In Orwell’s story, it is the Burmese who are characterized like villains because of their interest in killing the elephant. More importantly, this story illustrates the power of the masses. Despite the political status quo, one can see that human behavior is fragile and manipulable, regardless of one’s standing in society. Though the imperialists and Orwell have the power of violence, it is ultimately the drive to instill the image of the imperialists readiness to inflict pain or assert power over others that triumphs in this piece. Ultimately, Orwell is regretful and empty.