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What on earth is happening here in Germany?’ Maud said…

“What on earth is happening here in Germany?’ Maud said: ‘We were doing all right in the mid-twenties. We had a democratic government and a growing economy. But everything was ruined by the Wall Street crash of 1929. Now we’re in the depths of a depression.’ Her voice shook with an emotion that…” quote by Ken Follett
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““What on earth is happening here in Germany?’ Maud said: ‘We were doing all right in the mid-twenties. We had a democratic government and a growing economy. But everything was ruined by the Wall Street crash of 1929. Now we’re in the depths of a depression.’ Her voice shook with an emotion that seemed close to grief. ‘You can see a hundred men standing in line for one advertised job. I look at their faces. They’re desperate. They don’t know how they’re going to feed their children. Then the Nazis offer them hope, and they ask themselves: What have I got to lose?””

Ken Follett

About This Quote

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

Economic collapse fuels desperation, making extremist promises alluring.

In simple terms: Hard times push people toward radical solutions.

Key Takeaway

Question promises that exploit fear.

Themes

economics politics psychology

Mood

Anxious thoughtful

Type

narrative historical cautionary

When to use this quote

  • job market
  • political campaigns
  • social movements
  • community support

Key Concepts

depression extremism hope despair

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards can protect societies from such manipulation?
A Different Perspective

Extremist solutions often fail to address root causes.

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