In the grand scheme of things, we see the dichotomy being made between those of the ‘arm-chair’ sort and those of the active praxis sort. This dichotomy is a false one, simply due to the fact that it’s not a clear-cut line. I’ve seen plenty of platformists hail their techniques as activist praxis and direct action, and I see plenty of people who participate in insurrectionary actions who are derided as going against the revolution. The issue here is mainly due to the fact that Leftists, as a whole, are scared at the idea of insurrectionary strikes, like the all too famous ‘propaganda of the deed’, and this has led to a Left that’s taken a step back from the nitty gritty that is true revolutionary activity. In this text, I wish to address my thoughts on what anarchist praxis should look like (and revolutionary praxis as a whole), and the praxis and ideals of SAF.

The SAF, or the Society of Absurdist Friends, is a that draws inspiration from nihilist anarchists (Like Fumiko Kaneko) and the illegalists (Like Luigi Galleani). Through this, we also advocate for violent insurrectionary activities to be carried out against the State (much like the FAI). Through violent insurrection, the common person finds power within themself, and this power gives them not only a boost to their morale, but it also shows to others that the time of revolution is always upon us, and it merely takes action to seize it. The liberation of all cannot be won through the ballot box, but it most definitely can be won through the pipe bomb and shotgun.

On top of this, non-violent means can be used alongside violent activities to secure the things we all need. By acting in solidarity with those who are less fortunate than us, the homeless and needy, we grow a bond and, using this bond, we grow a movement against the oppressors. We, the SAF, have distributed food and necessary items like blankets to the local homeless, and we’ve seen it’s effects in action. I remember going out to the local Walmart and there was a wandering group of anarchists busking. I went in a bought them food for them and their pups, and, through this, I gained comrades for life. Even though we glorify the large acts, we cannot look over the importance that our everyday actions has.

My biggest critique of the modern left is its aversion to the dirt that is direct action. Most like to believe it’s just protesting and unionizing, but it goes far deeper into this. As illegalists, we shun the chains, in the form of laws, that society places on us. Things like shoplifting and destruction of property (Fuck those Starbies windows) are direct action activities. Like going out and sabotaging construction equipment to protect the environment or damaging a jail or a government building. By using violence against the State and it’s entities directly, you can deliver some of the most damaging blows. (As we’ve seen with environmental activism or even acts of violence beings used to halt arrests and other proceedings). One of the driving inspirations I have in relation to this is the actions of ELF and ALF. Violence, even when human life is protected, can accomplish plenty, and can lead to the inspiration of those within similar strains of thought.

I place a large emphasis on the building of communities and networks of comrades. Whether they be communes or informal organizations like the SAF or FAI, they are a pinnacle piece of praxis. What is stronger than a tightly knit community of comrades fighting for the liberation of all? And, as Joe Hill puts it, what’s weaker than the feeble strength of one? In Appalachia, we already see a lingering hatred for any sort of large scale authoritarian organizing, and we see a love towards small scale community organizing efforts. The aspect of the community hasn’t been lost to the Appalachian folk, and it’s an amazing thing when it comes to organizing. However, many of us aren’t as lucky, and we have to build our own communities and strengthen them. While this can be a daunting task, starting out with as little as two people, like we have, can erupt into a larger community. Our supporters, mainly close friends, weren’t as inclined to the anarchist strain until they knew there was a community there to aid. I know for a fact that if it weren’t for the SAF and the establishment of a community, I’d probably be behind bars now for distributing stolen goods. (Fuck 335)

Now, onto the future of the SAF. While there are many things I don’t feel comfortable putting out on the web (ironic considering the nature of this essay), there are many things we wish to start doing in the near future. I’ve been in talks with Red Tail about possibly starting up a pop up kitchen once every so often for the locals to come get a free meal, whenever we can find the money for this. We also are looking towards distributing more necessities to the local homeless population, especially with winter finally settling in the mountains. There’s also the situation with Blair Mountain, and we’re awaiting the word on the possible permit, and, from there, we’ll decide what we will do.

I write all of this to hopefully inspire others and to spread our story as SAF. All it takes is a small spark to start a raging inferno, and lord are we all that spark. Within each of us lies that revolutionary zeal that we every so desperately need in this age. We must all look towards those around us, and those not so near (Like on Twitter), to organize and continue the destruction of Empire and all that comes with it. I’ve seen many great people in the last year, and I love all of those on anarchist twitter who communicate with me and continue to build a budding anarchist movement throughout the world. Y’all are an inspiration to me. Just as much as any Makhno or Malatesta or Bonnot Gang. I have no doubt that SAF owes a lot to y’all, and I will forever remember it.

Solidarity,

Bear Thorsson, SAF