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Those people who say that words have no power know nothing…

“Those people who say that words have no power know nothing of the nature of words. Words, well placed, can end a regime; can turn affection to hatred; can start a religion or even a war. Words are the shepherds of lies; they lead the best of us to the slaughter.” quote by Joanne Harris
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““Those people who say that words have no power know nothing of the nature of words. Words, well placed, can end a regime; can turn affection to hatred; can start a religion or even a war. Words are the shepherds of lies; they lead the best of us to the slaughter.””

Joanne Harris

About This Quote

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

Words, when carefully chosen, can shape societies, incite emotions, and even trigger wars, acting as powerful agents of change.

In simple terms: Words can create or destroy societies.

Key Takeaway

Choose words wisely to influence positively.

Themes

language power politics emotion truth

Mood

cautious inspired

Type

reflective educational

When to use this quote

  • political speeches
  • advertising
  • activism
  • personal conversations

Key Concepts

rhetoric propaganda social engineering

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we discern truthful from manipulative language?
  • What role does intention play in word choice?
A Different Perspective

Words can be misused to manipulate or deceive.

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