Annoying Quote by Anonymous
“Which way did they go, Peeves?" Filch was saying. "Quick, tell me." "Say 'please.'" "Don't mess with me, Peeves, now where did they go?" "Shan't say nothing if you don't say please," said Peeves in his annoying singsong voice. "All right- PLEASE." "NOTHING! Ha haaa! Told you I wouldn't say nothing if you didn't say please! Ha ha! Haaaaaa!" And they heard the sound of Peeves whooshing away and Filch cursing in rage.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, J.K. Rowling, 1999
A mischievous ghost refuses to comply unless addressed politely, highlighting the power of courtesy even with the supernatural.
In simple terms: Politeness can compel cooperation from unlikely sources.
Key Takeaway
Use polite language to get results.
Themes
courtesy
authority
humor
Mood
playful
ironic
Type
dialogue
fictional
When to use this quote
- classroom
- office
- customer service
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
social dynamics
power of language
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you think of a time when politeness changed an outcome?
- When might firmness be better than politeness?
A Different Perspective
Politeness may not work on those who ignore social norms.
