Mr. Kurtz: the Glorification vs the Reality

           Throughout the story thus far, there has been much talk about the famous Mr. Kurtz, much of it comparing Marlow to him. This association deeply fascinates Marlow to the point where he cannot wait to finally meet Kurtz and hear him speak, learn what he's like. Kurtz is known throughout the Company as being the grandest provider of ivory and a man of great power, but there have been mixed feelings about him by other members of the Company. Some feel belittled by Mr. Kurtz's domain, like the manager, and others dislike and envy the fascination around the subject of Kurtz. It is known, however, that Kurtz is ill, and Marlow is needed to resupply him. 
           However, after months of travel by boat to the "Heart of Darkness" where Mr. Kurtz is said to be situated, a great feeling of disappointment is felt by Marlow upon meeting the one most talked about. He talks extensively with a Russian man who works for the famous imperialist, and he gives Marlow a more accurate description of the kind of man Kurtz truly is. At one point he notices various posts outside in the distance, each with a rotting human head speared to the ends. Met with great disgust at the sight, Marlow reflects,

 "there was nothing exactly profitable in these heads being there. They only showed Mr. Kurtz lacked restraint in the gratification of his various lusts, that there was something wanting in him--some small matter which, then the pressing need arose, could not be found under his magnificent eloquence" (133).

The young Russian, who continues being a great admirer of Mr. Kurtz, tries to defend him by stating the speared heads were those of rebels. However, Marlow's disgust and disappointment in the man of ultimate power remains evident. Along with many other points, such as Kurtz's ill state, his planned attack on Marlow's steamboat, and his clear misuse of power and reign, proves his lack of grandeur, as well as his mortality and deterioration.