In four instances, Marlow is compelled to compromise with truth, but for a worthy purpose we feel that he is as honest as possible in an imperfect world. On one level, "Heart of Darkness" is a serious commentary on imperialism, what Conrad called "the vilest scramble for loot that ever disfigured the history of human conscience and geographical exploration." Marlow's portrayal is, from one aspect, a part of this theme and his suitability as a narrative vehicle is crucial to its presentation. Conrad uses it ironically to subvert the sahib views of imperialism. The most powerful influence on Conrad's choice of narrative convention would have been the mode of the sahib recounting his colonial experiences. Marlow relates the story as if it were firsthand experience. Certainly, "Heart of Darkness" possesses elements of realism. Conrad's intention in "Heart of Darkness" is not to provide an accurate description of Africa, and the Africa in the tale is the continent as seen through European eyes.
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