The word "gorilla" is used metaphorically to signify a guerrillero (a guerrilla warrior), but when translated from Spanish into English, it creates a seemingly rational connection despite the underlying irrationality of the words and context.
This happens because "gorilla" and "guerrilla" are homophones in English (they sound alike), even though they have completely
different origins—gorilla referring to the
animal and guerrilla meaning
small-scale, unconventional warfare. The confusion or intentional play on words arises when gorilla is used as a symbol, subtly distorting revolutionary identity. Freud’s theories, particularly on the id,
ego, and superego, suggest that this manipulation skews the working class’s perception of power. Instead of embracing a
raw revolutionary
force (id), they engage with an altered symbol that aligns more with the superego—a controlled, rationalized version of class struggle that ultimately benefits the
elite.
The additional layer of irrationality comes from external social or political factors—perhaps
propaganda, prejudice, or the way language evolves to justify certain biases. This irrationality, paradoxically, makes the term feel rational or natural in discourse, even when it's built on a shaky foundation.
By calling the guerrillero/a 'gorilla,' the ruling class redirects the proletariat’s revolutionary energy into a symbolic framework that
feels empowering but is ultimately a controlled, distorted reflection of
true class struggle—closer to the superego than the
id.
