PDF Summary:The Patient Assassin, by Anita Anand

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre served as a brutal turning point for the Indian independence movement. In The Patient Assassin, Anita Anand recounts the horrific events of April 1919 and their impact on Udham Singh, an unassuming orphan who became a driven revolutionary seeking retribution against Sir Michael O'Dwyer, the colonial official culpable for the atrocity.

Anand's meticulous research provides an intimate portrait of Singh's transformation and audacious assassination of O'Dwyer years later. While controversial in its violence, the symbolic act resonated across India. Udham Singh's unshakeable resolve cemented his status as an enduring icon of resistance against oppressive colonial rule.

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• The trauma of the massacre and the loss of fellow Indians likely had a profound psychological impact on Singh, shaping his worldview and driving his actions in the years that followed.
• Born in 1899 in Punjab, Udham Singh was orphaned at a young age and spent much of his early life in an orphanage. This lack of familial support and stability may have contributed to his initial aimlessness and search for purpose.

The catastrophic incident catalyzed a profound change in Udham, shifting him from the depths of disenchanted orphanhood to a resolute revolutionary, determined to deal a substantial blow to the bastion of British authority.

Anand meticulously traces the transformation of an ordinary individual into a determined advocate for liberation. Following his military stint and a dispiriting stint as a worker, Udham found renewed determination and camaraderie when he became a member of the Ghadar Party, which occurred after his time spent on the African continent. He evolved into a committed revolutionary, skilled at handling firearms and masterful in disguising his identity by adopting a range of aliases. Udham's relentless pursuit was fueled by his deep-seated hostility towards O'Dwyer.

Practical Tips

• Create a 'Change Catalyst' journal where you document daily small challenges and the lessons learned from them. By actively seeking out minor discomforts, such as trying a new food or initiating a conversation with a stranger, you can build resilience and adaptability over time.
• Create a vision board that encapsulates your goals for personal revolution. Use images, quotes, and symbols that represent the transformation you wish to see in yourself, similar to how Udham's vision for change guided his actions. Place this board in a space where you'll see it daily to serve as a constant reminder and motivator for your personal growth.
• Reflect on your experiences abroad, if any, and consider how they have shaped your worldview. Write down insights or shifts in your perspective that occurred during your travels and think about how these can inform your involvement in social or political causes within your community.
• Explore a basic firearm safety course to understand the responsibilities and skills involved in handling guns. By enrolling in a beginner's course, you'll learn the fundamentals of gun safety, operation, and maintenance, which can provide a foundation for responsible firearm handling. This can be done at local shooting ranges or through certified firearm safety instructors.
• Improve your social media privacy by using different usernames for various platforms. Create unique usernames that don't reveal personal information and aren't connected to your real name. This practice will help you maintain privacy online and understand the importance of managing digital identities.

Udham's assassination of O'Dwyer, the Punjab official who endorsed the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, symbolized retribution and motivated individuals committed to securing India's freedom.

Anand asserts that Udham Singh's deeds had a deep impact on the Indian populace. It became a symbolic act of defiance against the seemingly untouchable Raj. The assassination of O'Dwyer, who continued to justify the massacre even after he had returned to England, was seen as long-overdue vengeance. The event served as a clear indication that even within their own territory, the British could face consequences. Udham was hailed as a hero by countless individuals across India, yet he was met with disapproval from the British officials. His actions of vengeance served as a potent rallying cry for those seeking liberation.

Context

• The act was emblematic of the broader fight against colonial oppression, symbolizing the refusal to accept subjugation and the demand for justice and self-determination.
• The event underscored the idea that colonial subjects could challenge imperial authority beyond their own countries, suggesting a shift in the dynamics of power and resistance.
• The assassination took place during World War II, a time when global attention was focused on the fight against fascism, adding complexity to the perceptions of Singh's actions both in India and abroad.

The consequences stemming from Udham Singh's deadly strike on O'Dwyer.

The narrative highlights Udham's unwavering determination and the courageous manner in which he executed the assassination. Anand delves into the vigorous efforts by the British officials to influence public opinion and separate Udham's deeds from the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

The assassination was carried out with meticulous planning and precision by Udham Singh.

Anand highlights the meticulous planning, resource accumulation, and adeptness in evading detection within diverse circles across the United Kingdom that characterized Udham's approach.

Udham dedicated years to carefully orchestrating his retribution against O'Dwyer, gathering resources, creating false identities, and strategically placing himself to act when the opportunity arose.

The narrative emphasizes the careful and detailed preparations Udham Singh made for his vengeance. Anand reveals the meticulous and prolonged efforts of Udham, which spanned numerous years and led to his resolute mission to eliminate O'Dwyer, involving the accumulation of weapons, the use of multiple false identities, and the creation of an international support system. He journeyed from London's deprived areas to the bustling cities of America, always driven by memories of the massacre at Jallianwala Bagh. Udham's ability to evade detection, despite often crossing paths with law enforcement and being monitored by intelligence agencies, is both remarkable and troubling.

Practical Tips

• Practice patience and strategic thinking by playing turn-based strategy games like chess or Civilization. These games require you to think several moves ahead and commit to a long-term strategy, which can improve your ability to plan and execute long-term personal or professional projects.
• Leverage social media to create a support network that can provide resources and encouragement. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals who have expertise in areas relevant to your mission. If you aim to start a small business, you could join Facebook groups for entrepreneurs, follow business influencers on Twitter for insights, and participate in relevant discussions to gain knowledge and support.
• Engage with your heritage by learning a traditional skill or craft that has historical significance to your community. Look for local workshops or community classes that teach these skills, such as traditional weaving, woodworking, or cooking. Practicing these crafts can provide a hands-on connection to your cultural history and the struggles of your ancestors.

Other Perspectives

• Relying on false identities could suggest a lack of community support or safe havens that would allow Udham to operate under his real identity.
• Strategic placement for action could indicate a high level of premeditation, which may not account for the possibility of impulsive decisions made in the moment.
• The accumulation of weapons might be seen as a morally questionable act, depending on the context and the consequences of their use.
• The effectiveness of the international support system is not detailed; having a support system in place does not guarantee its functionality or impact on his ultimate goal.
• Law enforcement agencies often have limited resources and cannot track every individual's movements, especially if the person is skilled in using false identities.
• Intelligence agencies may not have been as effective or omnipresent as implied, allowing Udham to operate undetected.

Udham executed a shocking and deliberate act when he fired at O'Dwyer from a short distance during a crowded event in London.

Udham's personal journey was significantly shaped by the pivotal event of O'Dwyer's assassination, which also established the book's overarching narrative. Anand recreates the tension and chaos of the event, describing Udham's chilling calmness as he took aim and fired, the bullets piercing through O'Dwyer's back, ending his life instantly. Udham Singh's calculated approach to seek retribution solely against O'Dwyer, while ensuring no harm came to bystanders, including the senior colonial official overseeing Indian affairs, highlights the intensely personal and vengeful nature of his act.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal code of ethics inspired by historical figures' actions and decisions. Identify qualities and actions from people like Udham that resonate with you, and write down how you can incorporate these principles into your daily life. For instance, if you admire the courage or the sense of justice, consider how you can demonstrate these traits in your own decisions and interactions.
• Engage in a role-reversal exercise where you write a letter to yourself from the perspective of someone who has significantly influenced your life. In the letter, express how they might have felt and why they took the actions they did. This can foster empathy and a deeper understanding of how others' actions can shape our own paths.
• Practice improvisational speaking with a friend or in a group setting where one person sets a scene of tension or chaos, and you have to speak about it as if you were there. This exercise can help you think on your feet and learn how to convey urgency and emotion in your storytelling, making your accounts more compelling and relatable.
• Engage in regular physical exercise that requires precision and concentration, such as archery or target shooting. These activities demand a calm demeanor and steady hand, helping you develop the ability to maintain composure and focus when aiming for a goal. This can translate into improved calmness in various aspects of your life.
• Consider the power of targeted actions by volunteering for a cause that resonates with you, and within that cause, pinpoint a single project or role where your contribution could be most impactful. If you're passionate about environmental conservation, instead of general volunteering, seek out a program focused on tree planting in urban areas, where your efforts directly contribute to increasing green spaces.
• Engage in mindful observation exercises to enhance your awareness of how your actions affect others. Spend a day actively observing your interactions, noting instances where your actions could potentially harm someone not directly involved. Reflect on these observations and adjust your behavior to minimize any negative impact on bystanders in future interactions.
• Start a journal to track your emotional responses to conflicts or challenges. Note down the situation, your immediate emotional response, and the action you took. Over time, this will help you see if there's a trend of vengeful behavior and give you insights into managing your emotions more constructively.

Udham's action, while condemned by British authorities, was celebrated by many Indians as a valiant protest against the oppression of colonial governance.

Anand portrays the reaction to Udham Singh's actions, condemned as a heinous murder by the British, as being met with enthusiastic praise from many people throughout India. He gained recognition as a courageous champion for freedom, having dealt a substantial blow to the seemingly impregnable British dominion. Anand argues that his quest for vengeance reflected the deep-seated resentment and anger against British rule, revealing the fragility of the colonial establishment. The sight of Sir Michael's body on the ground, his blood blending with the earth, coupled with Udham's defiant grin when he was apprehended by the officials, became powerful symbols of Indian resistance.

Context

• The condemnation was part of a larger strategy to delegitimize anti-colonial movements and portray them as violent and unjustified, aiming to maintain the moral high ground in the eyes of the international community.
• Udham Singh was an Indian revolutionary who assassinated Michael O'Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, in 1940. This act was in retaliation for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where British troops killed hundreds of unarmed Indian civilians.
• The assassination challenged the British perception of control and security within their empire. It exposed vulnerabilities in their governance and the potential for resistance to manifest in unexpected and violent ways.
• In Indian culture, Singh's grin has been interpreted as a gesture of triumph over oppression, symbolizing the moral victory of the oppressed over their oppressors.

British authorities tried to influence public perception and minimize the fundamental reasons behind Udham Singh's actions.

Following the assassination, the book reveals the extreme measures implemented by British authorities. They endeavored to protect the imperial image by ensuring Udham's actions were not linked to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

British officials tried to depict Udham as an isolated, unhinged assassin, rather than acknowledging his status as a dedicated insurgent, in an effort to obscure any connection with the Jallianwala Bagh atrocity.

The British officials attempted to downplay Udham Singh's deeds by depicting him as a lone and unpredictable figure acting independently without accomplices. They masked his connections to the Ghadar Party, shaping media representations to present him as a lone zealot driven by personal grievances. Anand underscores the duplicity of their stance, considering their historical efforts to quell Indian activists on English soil. She depicts the lengths to which the British Empire went to protect its reputation, which involved distorting truths and hiding the real motives of the assassin.

Other Perspectives

• The portrayal of Udham Singh as unhinged could have been based on his behavior during his trial and not necessarily an intentional effort to misrepresent his motives or connections.
• The depiction of Udham Singh could reflect a narrative that was commonly used by colonial powers to maintain order and discourage similar acts, rather than a specific attempt to hide connections with the Jallianwala Bagh incident.
• Historical patterns of revolutionary activities often involve support systems and ideological affiliations that extend beyond individual action.
• The British officials may have lacked concrete evidence of Udham Singh's connections to the Ghadar Party, leading them to portray him as a lone actor.
• The depiction of Singh as acting on personal grievances might have been supported by evidence or statements made by Singh himself, which officials believed to be true.
• Efforts to protect the Empire's reputation may have been driven by the practical concerns of governance and the maintenance of order, rather than a deliberate attempt to distort truth.
• The actions of the British officials might have been driven by a standard protocol to avoid creating martyrs, which could inadvertently lead to a downplaying of the broader political context.

The government imposed strict limitations on press coverage of the murder and subsequent legal proceedings, deliberately downplaying aspects that could have illuminated Udham Singh's political motives.

British authorities enforced strict controls to prevent the spread of details about the assassination and the subsequent trials, as outlined by Anand. They lobbied against the dissemination of information regarding the massacre at Jallianwala Bagh or the political affiliations of Udham by media entities and journalistic institutions. The depiction aimed to present him as a solitary character, motivated solely by his own quest for retribution. The objective was to steer the story in such a manner that would reduce damage to the reputation of the British Empire and prevent any potential unrest in India.

Context

• Maintaining a positive image of the British Empire was crucial, especially during World War II, when Britain needed to project strength and stability to its colonies and allies.
• The British often sought to suppress nationalist movements by controlling narratives and minimizing the political implications of resistance acts, portraying them as isolated incidents.
• This was a pivotal event in 1919 where British troops, under the command of General Dyer, fired on a large crowd of unarmed Indian civilians in Amritsar, Punjab, resulting in hundreds of deaths. This event significantly fueled Indian nationalist sentiments and was a major turning point in the Indian independence movement.

Despite attempts by the British authorities to minimize its significance, Udham's deed resonated deeply with many in India, who regarded him as a martyr for the nation's independence, continuing to celebrate his memory after his passing.

The British attempts to control the narrative failed to stop the specifics of Udham Singh's deeds from becoming known in India, where they were received with significant joy. His demise further solidified his status as a symbol of sacrifice. Many people in India regarded the British narrative skeptically, seeing his actions as a justified retaliation for the unavenged atrocities of Jallianwala Bagh. Udham's reputation was tarnished in England, yet he became emblematic of brave defiance against colonial subjugation. In India, his memory is honored through statues, postal stamps, and numerous streets named after him.

Context

• Over time, Singh's legacy has been celebrated in Indian culture through films, literature, and public commemorations, reinforcing his status as a national hero.
• The early 20th century saw a cultural and political awakening in India, with increased awareness and education leading to more critical engagement with colonial narratives.
• At the time, many in Britain viewed Singh's actions as an act of terrorism rather than a political statement, leading to a negative perception of him in the UK.
• Postal stamps featuring Udham Singh serve as a means of official recognition by the Indian government, highlighting his importance in the national consciousness and history.

Udham Singh's legacy is widely revered and his contributions are esteemed across India.

In the final section, Anand turns her focus to the life story and individual journey of Udham Singh. The story of the book reveals the journey of a person whose deeds and ultimate execution solidified his position as a national symbol, a character whose lasting symbolic significance and complex legacy continue to be topics of conversation.

Udham Singh gained renown as a significant figure in India's quest for freedom.

Anand traces the evolution of Udham Singh's reputation in India, highlighting his transformation from a vilified rebel to a revered symbol of the independence movement. His quest for vengeance echoed the profound fury and bitterness experienced by countless individuals as a result of the United Kingdom's imperial control, mirroring a shared history.

Udham Singh, after being executed, became a symbol of valor and steadfast commitment to the cause of India's freedom, sacrificing his existence for the nation's autonomy.

Anand reveals the various ways in which Udham Singh's memory has been kept alive in India, including official acknowledgments and the continuation via oral storytelling. Although the British attempted to portray him as a deranged figure and diminish the impact of his story, his character and motives resonated with many Indians who were becoming more opposed to colonial dominance. Udham's unwavering declaration in the courtroom, where he passionately denounced the oppressive measures of the British and resisted efforts to muzzle his voice, went unreported in the British press but nonetheless found its way to India, fueling the growing calls for self-rule. His conduct came to symbolize resistance, seen as a much-anticipated counteraction to the horrors inflicted in Jallianwala Bagh.

Context

• By preserving his memory, these methods also serve as a form of resistance against colonial narratives that sought to undermine or misrepresent figures like Singh, reinforcing a more indigenous perspective on history.
• The British often labeled Indian revolutionaries as mentally unstable or criminal to delegitimize their political motives and reduce public sympathy for their cause. This was a common tactic used to maintain control and justify harsh measures against dissenters.
• Singh used his trial as a platform to voice his anti-colonial sentiments, a tactic used by many freedom fighters to draw international attention to their cause, despite the risk of severe punishment.
• Udham Singh was deeply affected by the massacre, having witnessed the aftermath firsthand. This event fueled his desire for retribution and justice, ultimately leading him to assassinate Michael O'Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, who had endorsed Dyer's actions.

Throughout India, statues, memorials, and various public tributes to Udham Singh emerged, cementing his reputation as a cherished symbol of the struggle for independence.

India's reverence for Udham Singh was solidified through the creation of monuments, the naming of memorials, and the designation of streets and institutions in his tribute. His visage was featured on postal stamps, and his biography was depicted in a variety of films and theatrical productions. Anand suggests that the tendency to celebrate those who defied British rule contributed to the reverence for Udham, highlighting his symbolic significance in India's pursuit of forging a unique national identity.

The story of Udham and his audacious defiance of British authority has woven itself into the fabric of India's collective memory and cultural storytelling, shaping its historical perspective and national self-concept.

Anita Anand argues that the influence of Udham Singh extends far beyond his individual action. The event had deeply embedded itself within the collective consciousness of India, shaping the nation's understanding of its historical narrative and sense of identity. His representation as an emblem of resistance to oppression, characterized by his unwavering determination and intrinsic flaws, resonates with the challenges many confront. Despite the British executing Udham and attempting to erase his memory, his death ultimately endowed the people of his nation with a sense of victory that eclipsed any achievements he could have attained in life.

Context

• The mention of "intrinsic flaws" suggests that Singh, like many historical figures, was a complex individual. His determination might have been accompanied by personal struggles or controversial decisions, reflecting the human side of revolutionary figures.
• His defiance is seen as embodying the spirit of resistance that contributed to the broader Indian independence movement, influencing how India views its colonial past and its journey to sovereignty.

The enduring controversy and intricate heritage linked to Udham Singh's deeds.

Anand's book concludes by delving deeply into the complex heritage bequeathed by Udham Singh. She highlights the divisive debates over his political tactics, which involved violence, and acknowledges his symbolic role in India's fight for independence.

Many view Udham Singh as a symbol of heroism; yet, his decision to use violence and assassinate O'Dwyer has made him a polarizing figure, sparking debates over the ethical grounds of his actions.

Udham Singh's enduring legacy still ignites discussions and controversies across India and around the globe. He is considered by some to be a hero who sought vengeance against a ruthless dictator. Some people wonder if his aggressive tactics inadvertently set back the quest for India's autonomy. Anand acknowledges the complexity of the individual, steering clear of depicting him simply as a hero or a complete villain. The complexities and paradoxes within his character, she contends, render his narrative all the more captivating. Understanding Udham requires an appreciation of the formative hardships and the backdrop of history that shaped his personality.

Practical Tips

• Encourage acts of heroism in everyday life by starting a "Hero of the Month" recognition program at your workplace or school. Identify colleagues or peers who go above and beyond to help others or contribute positively to the environment around them. Set up a simple nomination process and use a bulletin board or internal newsletter to celebrate the selected individuals. This initiative can motivate others to act heroically in their daily lives, reflecting the spirit of heroism embodied by figures like Udham Singh.
• Engage in role-playing exercises with friends or family where each person adopts the persona of a historical figure with a contentious legacy. Debate their decisions and actions from their perspective to gain insight into the motivations and consequences of their choices, enhancing empathy and historical comprehension.
• Create a "moral feedback" group with friends or colleagues where you can discuss ethical dilemmas in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Meet regularly to present scenarios you've encountered and seek diverse perspectives on how to handle them ethically. This can help you develop a more nuanced understanding of ethics and learn from the experiences and viewpoints of others.
• Create a digital storytelling project using social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok to share short, engaging stories about figures like Udham Singh. Use hashtags to reach a wider audience and encourage followers to share their thoughts and stories about historical legacies that have sparked global discussions.
• Explore the complexity of heroism by writing a short story where the protagonist's actions are morally ambiguous. This exercise can help you understand the nuances of what makes someone a hero or a villain in different contexts. For example, your character could be a whistleblower who is seen as a traitor by some and a hero by others, depending on their perspective.
• Experiment with different negotiation tactics in low-stakes situations, such as bargaining at a flea market or discussing a project timeline with a colleague. Take note of the reactions you receive when you adjust your assertiveness level. This can help you gauge the effectiveness of various approaches and refine your strategy for more critical negotiations in the future.
• Start a virtual book club focused on biographies and autobiographies that portray their subjects with depth and complexity. Each month, select a different book and discuss with your group the multifaceted nature of the person's life, decisions, and impact. This encourages a collective exploration of complexity in human character, beyond black-and-white interpretations.
• Explore your own complexities by journaling about contradictory aspects of your personality. Start by writing down traits or beliefs that seem to conflict with each other, such as being ambitious yet valuing relaxation, or being a private person who enjoys social events. Reflect on how these paradoxes play out in your daily life and what they reveal about your deeper values and motivations.
• Create a personal history timeline to better understand the influences on your own beliefs and actions. Start by charting out significant events in your life alongside major historical events that occurred during the same periods. Reflect on how these events may have shaped your worldview and responses to different situations. For example, if you grew up during a time of economic recession, consider how this might have influenced your attitudes towards money and job security.

Academics and historical experts continue to delve into the intricate details of Udham's existence and the motivations behind his actions, particularly in light of how the horrors of Jallianwala Bagh, as well as other instances of colonial brutality, catalyzed a profound change within him, prompting him to commit radical deeds.

Anand posits that the path taken by Udham Singh serves as a powerful testament to the enduring consequences of colonial brutality. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre's brutality and the subsequent absence of repercussions for the perpetrators sparked a deep sense of injustice and intense anger among the Indian people. The pivotal event that catalyzed Udham's metamorphosis amidst imperial subjugation illustrates how a person can be driven to radicalism and highlights how individuals who might initially appear inconsequential can evolve into powerful emblems of defiance.

Practical Tips

• You can deepen your understanding of historical events by creating a visual timeline of the incident and its aftermath. Start by researching the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and identify key dates, figures, and events that followed. Use a large poster board or a digital tool to map out the timeline, adding images, newspaper clippings, and notes. This will help you visualize the cause-and-effect relationship and the broader impact of the event on Indian history.

Other Perspectives

• Highlighting the role of colonial brutality in driving individuals to radicalism might inadvertently suggest that the oppressed are responsible for their own radicalization, rather than focusing on the oppressive structures and policies as the root cause of such transformations.
• The transformation into a symbol of defiance often requires public recognition and support, which not all individuals receive, regardless of their actions or intentions.

Udham Singh's role in India's struggle for independence continues to be a significant and contentious topic, highlighting the complex debates and differences of opinion on the use of political violence against colonial rule.

The work by Anita Anand encourages readers to explore the complex heritage left by Udham Singh's deeds and to wrestle with the ethical dilemmas tied to politically motivated violence. Were his actions simply emblematic of vengeance and an attempt to reclaim power, or did they signify a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence? She departs, igniting a complex and continuous discussion regarding the essence of insurrection and the outcomes that arise from colonial control. Udham Singh stands as a poignant emblem of the lasting damage wrought by colonial brutality, shaping individual fates and shared consciousness, embodied in a revolutionary whose actions were propelled by a quest for retribution and marked by human flaws.

Practical Tips

• Start a journal where you reflect on daily situations where you felt powerless and how you responded to them. Use this as a tool to recognize patterns in your behavior and develop strategies for handling similar situations in the future, thereby reclaiming your sense of agency.
• You can deepen your understanding of insurrection and colonial outcomes by creating a personal reflection journal. Start by reflecting on current events that may have historical ties to colonialism and insurrection. Write down your thoughts on how these events are portrayed in the media, and compare them with the historical context you've learned. This practice will help you recognize patterns and understand the complexities of these issues in a modern setting.
• Engage in mindful consumption of media by actively seeking out films, documentaries, and podcasts that address the theme of colonialism and its lasting effects. Make a point to consume at least one piece of media per month that delves into this topic, and afterwards, take some time to reflect on the new insights you've gained. This habit can help you recognize the ongoing influence of historical events in modern society and promote a more informed worldview.
• Create a visual art project that represents the interconnectedness of individual actions and collective consciousness. Use mixed media, like collage or painting, to depict how a single person's actions ripple through society. For instance, you might create a collage that starts with a central figure and expands outward to show a network of people influenced by that figure's deeds.
• Start a journal to document instances where you stand up for your beliefs in everyday situations. Keeping a record of moments when you advocate for yourself or others can help you see patterns in your behavior and understand how you can more effectively enact change. For instance, if you speak up against unfair treatment at work, note the outcome and how it made you feel, to reinforce your commitment to justice.
• Create a "Flaw Jar" where you deposit a small note every time you recognize a flaw in your actions. Use this as a tool to track personal growth and remind yourself that imperfections are part of being human. At the end of each month, review the notes to see patterns and consider ways to improve or accept certain traits. This tangible method makes the abstract concept of personal flaws more concrete and manageable.