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The Government does not intend these things to happen, the…

“The Government does not intend these things to happen, the Commission on whose report the Bill was founded did not intend these things to happen, but in legislation intention is nothing, and the letter of the law everything, and no government has the.” quote by William Butler Yeats
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“The Government does not intend these things to happen, the Commission on whose report the Bill was founded did not intend these things to happen, but in legislation intention is nothing, and the letter of the law everything, and no government has the.”

William Butler Yeats

About This Quote

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

Legal language often fails to capture intent; the law's letter can dominate over its spirit.

In simple terms: Law focuses on wording, not intention.

Key Takeaway

Balance literal interpretation with underlying purpose.

Themes

law intent interpretation

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court rulings
  • policy drafting
  • contract negotiations
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

legal theory philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure laws serve their intended purpose?
  • When should spirit override letter?
A Different Perspective

Strict adherence to text can produce unjust outcomes.

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