Bissell fingered his napkin. "I do, Mr. Boyd. And I know…
““Bissell fingered his napkin. "I do, Mr. Boyd. And I know how generous Mr. Hoffa, Mr. Marcello and a few other Italian gentlemen have been to the Cause, and I know that you possess a certain amount of influence in the Kennedy camp. And as the President's chief Cuban-issue liaison, I also know that Fidel Castro and Communism are a good deal worse than the Mafia, although I wouldn't dream of asking you to intercede on our friends' behalf, because it might cost you credibility with your sacred Kennedys." Stanton dropped his soup spoon. Pete let a big breath out eeeasy. Boyd put out a big shit-eating grin. "I'm glad you feel that way, Mr. Bissell. Because if you did ask me, I'd have to tell you to go fuck yourself.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character offers illicit favors, exposing corrupt political ties and moral decay, then rebuffs the request bluntly.
In simple terms: Powerful connections are tainted by corruption; the speaker rejects complicity.
Key Takeaway
Reject unethical deals despite potential gain.
Themes
corruption
politics
morality
power
betrayal
Mood
tense
cynical
Type
dramatic
cautionary
When to use this quote
- government work
- organized crime
- personal integrity
- negotiations
Key Concepts
ethical dilemmas
political intrigue
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the risks of refusing powerful allies?
- How can one expose corruption without endangering oneself?
A Different Perspective
The speaker’s blunt refusal may provoke retaliation.