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.
