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But if you caught my informant,' said Achilles, 'why in…

“But if you caught my informant,' said Achilles, 'why in the world would Chamrajnagar—or Graff, if it was him—launch the shuttle anyway? Was catching me doing something naughty so important they’d risk a shuttle and it’s crew just to catch me? I find that quite… flattering. Sort of like winning the…” quote by Orson Scott Card
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“But if you caught my informant,' said Achilles, 'why in the world would Chamrajnagar—or Graff, if it was him—launch the shuttle anyway? Was catching me doing something naughty so important they’d risk a shuttle and it’s crew just to catch me? I find that quite… flattering. Sort of like winning the Nobel Prize for scariest villain.”

Orson Scott Card

About This Quote

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

Achilles questions the absurdity of risking a shuttle for a single person, highlighting the paradox of villainous fame.

In simple terms: Questioning the value of dangerous attention.

Key Takeaway

Consider the cost of fame versus safety.

Themes

fame risk paradox heroism

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

ethical satirical

When to use this quote

  • military strategy
  • media coverage
  • personal ambition
  • ethical debates

Key Concepts

Ethics of sacrifice public spectacle

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is notoriety worth endangering others?
  • How do we balance recognition with responsibility?
A Different Perspective

May glorify reckless behavior.

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