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The time's gone by for sentiment and all that foolery…

“The time's gone by for sentiment and all that foolery. Mercy's all very well but after all it's justice that clinches the bargain.” quote by Walter de la Mare
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““The time's gone by for sentiment and all that foolery. Mercy's all very well but after all it's justice that clinches the bargain.””

Walter de la Mare

About This Quote

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

Sentimentality is outdated; justice, not mercy, is the decisive factor in deals.

In simple terms: Justice matters more than sentiment.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize fairness over emotional appeals.

Themes

justice realism pragmatism

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • legal negotiations
  • political treaties
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

ethical decision‑making social contracts

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does mercy outweigh justice?
  • How can fairness be balanced with compassion?
A Different Perspective

Mercy can still be vital in humane societies.

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