Christ, he thinks, by my age I ought to know. You don't…
““Christ, he thinks, by my age I ought to know. You don't get on by being original. You don't get on by being bright. You don't get on by being strong. You get on by being a subtle crook; somehow he thinks that's what Norris is, and he feels an irrational dislike taking root, and he tries to dismiss it, because he prefers his dislikes rational, but after all, these circumstances are extreme, the cardinal in the mud, the humiliating tussle to get him back in the saddle, the talking, talking, on the barge, and worse, the talking, talking on his knees, as if Wolsey's unraveling, in a great unweaving of scarlet thread that might lead you back into a scarlet labyrinth, with a dying monster at its heart.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Success often depends on subtle manipulation and navigating complex social dynamics rather than obvious virtues.
In simple terms: Subtlety beats obviousness.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate nuanced influence.
Themes
politics
power
psychology
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- negotiations
- leadership
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
social maneuvering
strategic thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance subtlety with integrity?
- When is directness more effective?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on subtlety can breed mistrust.