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Sometimes," Helena continued, "I have a terrible dream of…

“Sometimes," Helena continued, "I have a terrible dream of the future. Not now, but presently, people may forget their loyalty to their kings and emperors and take power for themselves. Instead of letting one victim bear this frightful curse they will take it all on themselves, each one of them…” quote by Evelyn Waugh
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““Sometimes," Helena continued, "I have a terrible dream of the future. Not now, but presently, people may forget their loyalty to their kings and emperors and take power for themselves. Instead of letting one victim bear this frightful curse they will take it all on themselves, each one of them. Think of the misery of a whole world possessed of Power without Grace.””

Evelyn Waugh

About This Quote

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

A warning that future societies may abandon deference to authority, embracing unchecked personal power that leads to collective suffering.

In simple terms: Power without grace breeds universal misery.

Key Takeaway

Unchecked ambition harms all.

Themes

Power Authority Responsibility Collective Suffering Moral Decay

Mood

Foreboding Reflective Cautionary

Type

Philosophical Warning Literary

When to use this quote

  • Political upheaval
  • Corporate power shifts
  • Social movements
  • Technological autonomy

Key Concepts

Loyalty Leadership Human Nature Ethics

Practical Applications

  • Ethical governance frameworks
  • Leadership training programs

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can prevent power from becoming tyrannical?
  • How does personal ambition affect communal well‑being?
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