Virtue," he said. "The real thing. It's not some kind of…
“Virtue," he said. "The real thing. It's not some kind of cuddly teddy bear you can keep on the shelf until you need a hug. It's dangerous, which is why it makes people so nervous. Virtue has its own agenda, and believe me, it's not always yours. The word itself means strength, power. And when it gets loose, you'd better watch out." Something bad might happen..." Impossible. But possibly something painful" -A Wizard Alone by Diane Duane”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Virtue is portrayed as a powerful, autonomous force that can be unsettling and may conflict with personal desires, demanding vigilance.
In simple terms: Virtue is strong, independent, and can be dangerous.
Key Takeaway
Stay aware of virtue’s influence and align it with your values.
Themes
responsibility
power
inner conflict
vigilance
Mood
reflective
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
advice
literary
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- leadership
- ethical dilemmas
- self‑reflection
Key Concepts
autonomy
moral agency
danger
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal goals with higher moral duties?
- When has virtue challenged your comfort zone?
A Different Perspective
Virtue may not always serve your interests and can cause unintended harm.