XXIV. On the Art and Purpose of Holocrons

Through making a holocron, a Sith may well revise or drastically change formerly held sentiments, but while a journal is solely for the benefit of the writers learning, that is not the purpose of a holocron.

They are tools of guidance, of teaching. Though in numerous instances I have seen them used as journals. In a way, they still convey thoughts, lessons, and are indeed repositories of knowledge, but a holocron is not a journal. It is meant to be a device that helps Sith to think, to grow. It is meant to act as the embodiement of its creator, of his personality, of his perspectives, of what has been embraced by the individual who made it.

There are other brands of course, other methods. I will offer what I know of the two types of significance that I have encountered and used. To differentiate between a ‘true’ holocron and that of other kinds, suitable terms will precede an explantion; that is to say, ‘training’ holocrons and ‘journal’ holocrons. These two can be similar, but for the sake of clarity they will be addressed separately.

First, ‘journal’ holocrons. I rather despise these, if I may be so candid. FA holocrons are the most notable example, tending to be accounts and happenings of the authors life, along with some thoughts. Some have been used in a way closer to what might be considered properly, with entries pertaining to specific subjects along with the authors thoughts and opinions on said subject. The reason I dislike these though is simply that, while they can potentially be used as a holocron should be, all to often they are little more than catalogues of events.

‘Training’ holocrons are a bit more sensible, they are meant as a teaching device. The only differentiation is that they are a recording of progress in training. In contrast, the content of a ‘true’ holocron is meant to be a product of training.

A Holocron (in fiction) of any kind was meant to be a repository of knowledge, a teaching device. A Sith Holocron is meant to be a device containing the teachings of a single Sith Lord, and this is true; the only difference between a holocron of fiction and a real holocron: the Sith Holocrons of fiction were palm-sized objects composed of crystal, in the shape of a pyramid, while a real holocron must be written (and/or typed) by hand. Even the personality of a Sith Lord can be found in his holocron, it can be seen in the subjects he focuses on, the style of his writing, etc. Holocrons are not journals. While they may serve to help their authors to clarify their teachings, they are meant to be teaching toolsfor others to learn from. So, how might you create one? You shouldn’t bother unless you know yourself and your beliefs well enough to display them to others. Guidelines can be provided, but they will be brief, it is for each individual author to decide on and create the content of his or her holocron.

Guidelines: The first entry usually consists of an introduction in which the author offers some of his or her history. In this first entry, an explanation of the Sith’s decision to walk the path he/she has created may or may not be given. For those wishing to make their own holocron, it might depend on how personal the transition was, how much value you might place in secrecy and deception, or any other possible factors. Holocrons are useful to their creators in two very noticeable ways. First, it allows you to offer your knowledge to others and pass on your personal teachings, personal truths, and personal discoveries. Second, it allows you to write your own beliefs and to ask yourself if you actually put your teachings into practice, or if you are simply preaching of things you know nothing about. You cannot write a proper holocron without the proper experience. You should not have beliefs and philosophies that you yourself are not willing to uphold, as that is detrimental to your learning as well as the learning of those who read your flawed holocron. If you wish to teach people, you must apply your knowledge to yourself, and have experience in the applications of your ways. As a Sith, you should be examining and attempting to learn about yourself. There is no doubt you will ask yourself questions in this process. A useful technique to write entries is to find the answers to your questions, when and if you find the answers, and only if you think others would learn from your revelations and theories. You may also want to simply let your thoughts flow in the midst of writing a holocron entry, and refine the entry if necessary.