It would be almost a public service to dangle the…
““It would be almost a public service to dangle the alternatives in front of the widow before Miles got her mind all turned inside out like he did everyone else’s. But . . . Miles had extracted his word from Ivan, with downright ruthless determination. Forced it, practically, and a forced oath was no oath at all. The way around this dilemma occurred to Ivan between one step and the next; his lips pursed in a sudden whistle. The scheme was nearly . . . Milesian. Cosmic justice, to serve the dwarf a dish with his own sauce. By the time Pym let him out the front door, Ivan was smiling again.””
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 manipulates promises and oaths, using ruthless determination to achieve personal justice.
In simple terms: He forces oaths to serve his own justice.
Key Takeaway
Beware of coercive promises.
Themes
power
manipulation
justice
determination
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political intrigue
- legal disputes
- personal relationships
- corporate negotiations
Key Concepts
ethical coercion
personal vendetta
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever ethical to force a promise?
- What are the costs of ruthless determination?
A Different Perspective
The ends may not justify the means.