The dead man's companions at the counter started to their…
““The dead man's companions at the counter started to their feet, but halted as Voynod with great aplomb turned to face them. "Take care, you dunghill cocks! Notice the fate of your fellow! He died by the power of my magic blade, which is of inexorable metal and cuts rock and steel like butter. Behold!" And Voynod struck out at a pillar. The blade, striking an iron bracket, broke into a dozen pieces. Voynod stood non-plussed, but the bravo's companions surged forward. "What then of your magic blade? Our blades are ordinary steel but bite deep!" And in a moment Voynod was cut to bits. The bravos now turned upon Cugel. "What of you? Do you wish to share the fate of your comrade?" "By no means!" stated Cugel. "This man was but my servant, carrying my pouch. I am a magician; observe this tube! I will project blue concentrate at the first man to threaten me!" The bravos shrugged and turned away. Cugel secured Voynod's pouch, then gestured to the landlord. "Be so good as to remove these corpses; then bring a further mug of spiced wine.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A boastful magician threatens others with his magical blade, but his overconfidence leads to his defeat when his blade shatters and he is cut by ordinary steel.
In simple terms: Overconfidence and reliance on flashy power can backfire against simple, reliable force.
Key Takeaway
Don’t rely on showy power; respect humble strength.
Themes
pride
overconfidence
conflict
magic
humility
Mood
tense
dramatic
cautious
Type
narrative
conflict
lesson
When to use this quote
- battle
- duel
- negotiation
- survival
- resourcefulness
Key Concepts
hubris
fragility of magic
reversal of power
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance confidence with humility?
- When might simplicity outshine spectacle?
A Different Perspective
Even magical weapons can be broken; ordinary tools may prevail.