Let me ask you one thing, Tallis," MacMaine said. "Would…
““Let me ask you one thing, Tallis," MacMaine said. "Would you do anything in your power to save Keroth from destruction? Anything, no matter how drastic, if you knew that it would save Keroth in the long run?" "A foolish question. Of course I would. I would give my life." "Your life? A mere nothing. A pittance. Any man could give his life. Would you consent to live forever for Keroth?" Tallis shook his head as though he were puzzled. "Live forever? That's twice or three times you've said something about that. I don't understand you." "Would you consent to live forever as a filthy curse on the lips of every Kerothi old enough to speak? Would you consent to be a vile, inhuman monster whose undead spirit would hang over your homeland like an evil miasma for centuries to come, whose very name would touch a flame of hatred in the minds of all who heard it?" "That's””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A hero is asked to sacrifice everything for a cause, confronting the moral cost of eternal life versus fleeting freedom.
In simple terms: Choosing sacrifice may bring curse as much as salvation.
Key Takeaway
Weigh eternal duty against personal cost.
Themes
sacrifice
eternity
morality
heroism
Mood
conflicted
somber
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
dialogue
When to use this quote
- war
- political intrigue
- personal decision
- legacy
- spiritual conflict
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical dilemma
selflessness
Questions to Reflect On
- What would you give up for a greater good?
- Is eternal life a blessing or a curse?
A Different Perspective
The promise of immortality can become a burden of endless suffering.