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[The World Trade Center and the Pentagon] have drawn, like…

“[The World Trade Center and the Pentagon] have drawn, like gathered lightning, the anger of the enemies of civilization. Those enemies are always out there… Americans are slow to anger but mighty when angry, and their proper anger now should be alloyed with pride. They are targets because of their…” quote by George Will
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“[The World Trade Center and the Pentagon] have drawn, like gathered lightning, the anger of the enemies of civilization. Those enemies are always out there… Americans are slow to anger but mighty when angry, and their proper anger now should be alloyed with pride. They are targets because of their virtues-principally democracy, and loyalty to those nations which, like Israel, are embattled salients of our virtues in a still-dangerous world.”

George Will

About This Quote

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

America’s democratic virtues attract hostility; anger must be balanced with pride and purpose.

In simple terms: Democracy draws enemies; anger should be purposeful.

Key Takeaway

Channel anger into constructive action.

Themes

politics national identity justice pride

Mood

cautious determined

Type

political motivational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • public discourse
  • civic engagement

Key Concepts

democratic values enemy perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can pride temper anger?
  • What constructive actions follow righteous anger?
A Different Perspective

Anger can cloud judgment and lead to rash decisions.

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