![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLa7l1ho70sMtbixxrau148BOBximpaia4H99g6xiV-S1XGdUEBZz6PlinzeQxCks28g-dTTRcAWkgRnXmOSJRDL1QWslaWdcEEMzLL89Ep3R13w6XAkl4Wch4rX2rSaTZD9q4E6rVDykf/s320/RPK-bars.jpg)
Freedom is a spiritual condition. Physically, RPK may not be free to drive around town and have a beer with his mates. Perhaps RPK the self-made Master of his own Destiny is taking this golden opportunity to journey within and take a break from the incessant fray raging in political circles.
Going into self-chosen seclusion and deep silence may be his way of detoxing, recharging and renewing himself. It will be an ascetic retreat sponsored by the federal government - but he will emerge glowing with even greater luminosity.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgir5HXpuQbE-YpoVBlx2E7ribSTdfc3zo6Hqf61CcJaZ3YmY3Zd0FNgljjGlSKCChVRV4ETo1iebWYe53gfKjgY6jtrc98f27HlaHbAgp1ULuHh4hD9TKkMEm99PsMWpBTWWoC0wktJhL2/s320/Balrog-TedNasmith.jpg)
Only, in the case of RPK, the Balrog is a monster of infinite darkness called BN.
[RPK portrait courtesy of Malaysiakini. Balrog illustration by Ted Nasmith]