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Who with the Devil tries to play fair, weaves the net of…

“Who with the Devil tries to play fair, weaves the net of his own despair. Oh, smile; what’s a house between drunkards?” quote by Derek Walcott
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““Who with the Devil tries to play fair, weaves the net of his own despair. Oh, smile; what’s a house between drunkards?””

Derek Walcott

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Attempting fairness with evil leads to self‑destruction; false balance creates personal ruin.

In simple terms: Fairness with evil harms you.

Key Takeaway

Avoid playing fair with malicious forces.

Themes

morality self‑destruction justice

Mood

cautionary reflective

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • conflict resolution
  • ethical decisions

Key Concepts

ethical paradox self‑sabotage

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you recognize when fairness becomes self‑harm?
  • What alternatives exist to confronting evil?
A Different Perspective

Fairness may be impossible with truly malevolent intent.

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