Obi-Wan's Call: Anakin as His Brother in the Jedi Brotherhood

In the context of the Jedi Order, the term 'brother' is often used to signify a deep bond of loyalty, mutual respect, and trust. When Obi-Wan Kenobi refers to Anakin Skywalker as his brother, he highlights the complex emotional relationship between these two pivotal characters in Star Wars lore.

Anakin's Perspective

Anakin may have seen Obi-Wan as a father figure, particularly given his difficult upbringing and the absence of a typical family structure. However, their relationship is far more nuanced and multi-layered than a simple father-son dynamic. This complexity is exemplified by moments of affection, rivalry, and conflict, underscoring the emotional turmoil that Obi-Wan feels when confronting Anakin's fall to the dark side.

Emotional Complexity

Their bond, while strong, is fraught with tension. Obi-Wan's use of the term 'brother' serves as a poignant reminder of the loss and betrayal he experiences after Anakin's transformation into Darth Vader. This term allows Obi-Wan to acknowledge his complex feelings without completely cutting ties with Anakin.

Too Similar: Ambition and Emotion

One could argue that the biggest reason why their padawan/master/friendship failed was because they were too similar. Both Anakin and Obi-Wan share an ambitious/competitive streak, are hot-tempered, and are terrible at communicating openly. They are both stubborn and deferential to a fault. These shared traits created a toxic cycle where neither could fully confront their flaws or their aspirations without fear of abandonment or rejection.

Anakin's Path: Palpatine's Influence and Emotional Turmoil

Anakin's path to the dark side was further complicated by the influence of Palpatine. Unlike Obi-Wan, who had virtually no experience outside of the Jedi Order, Anakin had known a different world. This background allowed Anakin to recognize his own humanity and desires, leading to his eventual emotional/mental instability due to the Jedi’s emotional abuse and moral hypocrisy.

Obi-Wan's Narrative: Denial and Compliance

Obi-Wan, on the other hand, was perfectly comfortable living in total denial and sacrificing his feelings and personal relationships for the Jedi Council. He adhered rigorously to Yoda's rules, often at the expense of genuine emotional connections. This was evident in his relationship with Anakin and with Princess Amidala, whom he pushed away. His ambitions and his fear of being rejected by the Jedi Order led him to become an ass kisser to Yoda and the Council, ultimately pushing him away from his true friends.

Genuine Friendship Amidst Turmoil

Despite the challenges and conflicts, it can be argued that Anakin was Obi-Wan's only true friend in the Order. Obi-Wan’s loyalty and deference to the Council had him make many sacrifices, even when he knew the cause or organization was morally wrong. While the Council saw Anakin as a threat to their cookie-cutter "perfect Jedi," they also pitied him after his master's loss. This misplaced pity and the fear of standing up to the Council contributed to the downfall of both Anakin and Obi-Wan.

Conclusion: Complex Bonds and Fallen Friends

The complex relationship between Obi-Wan and Anakin is a poignant reminder of the challenges and emotional turmoil that often accompany close bonds within the Jedi Order. Though their path to the dark side was fraught with similar challenges, their journeys led to vastly different outcomes, forever changing the Star Wars universe.