Star Words: Episode VI, Part 36

As Luke and the Emperor continue their battle of wills, it starts to become clear that the Emperor knows quite a bit about the Rebellion's plans. And he's certain that those plans pose no threat to the Empire or the Death Star whatsoever. It's possible that Luke is becoming unsettled, but he retains every appearance of serenity as he responds to the Emperor's bravado.

"Your overconfidence is your weakness."

The Emperor has a quick, angry retort. "Your faith in your friends is yours."

And here we have the essence of the Dark Side against the Light -- overweening pride and belief in one's own solitary strength versus the love and power of being connected to others. Yes, Luke's connection to his friends could be used against him (and will, later on in the film) but at its heart it is a strength, not a weakness. The Emperor uses and exploits and commands, but he never forms connections. He never loves. He believes only in himself and the all-consuming importance of power and dominance. He trusts Vader only as far as he can control him, and so sets himself up for betrayal.

Caring about others, trusting them, forming connections -- it requires vulnerability, taking risks. To an adherent of the Dark Side, it must seem like absurd folly. But it is ultimately the greatest force in the universe.

Next, an ominous revelation....