The True Meaning of Equality
And finally, Geltveltians understand that “equality” means “starting-line equality,” not “finish-line equality.” When Bad Elves grumble that they eat scraps and live in hovels while the Trolls dine on ambrosia and nectar while living in palaces, it is pointed out to them that in Geltvelt everyone lives according to his or her just deserts. It is endlessly repeated that in this wonderful land anyone who is skillful enough, clever enough, or applies one's shveice with sufficient diligence “can live like a Troll.” Trolls like to boast that their good fortune is the just compensation for a lifetime of shveice (although in their case the shveice consists of telling Elves what to do or convincing them to part with their meager glitter gelt), not anything dirty or otherwise demeaning.
In order to convince the Elves that anyone can become Trolls, they have provided them with numerous excellent opportunities for improving themselves. They are called “trying your luck,” or “taking chances.” One sees slogans such as “Nothing ventured, nothing gained!” and “Somebody has got to win!” Chance-taking allows a few lucky Elves to become Trolls and greatly enriches the Trolls who control the chance-taking operations. The fortunate winners are prominently featured in all the information kiosks, making chance-taking irresistible to many Elves. One of the favorite forms involves taking chances on the price of parts in various megaguilds. It is not even necessary to allow a occasional Elf to win in this profitable game as the Trolls are seen to be fabulously rich because of it. The part-market, as it is called, is thus the best means Geltveltians have yet devised for keeping the Elves in their place while giving them the comforting illusion that they can “move up the ladder” and eventually “live like a Troll.”
