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Dance Quote by Cormac McCarthy

“I tell you this, as war becomes dishonored and its nobility called into question those honorable men who recognize the sanctity of blood will become excluded from the dance, which is the warrior's right, and thereby will the dance become a false dance and the dancers false dancers. And yet there…” quote by Cormac McCarthy
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““I tell you this, as war becomes dishonored and its nobility called into question those honorable men who recognize the sanctity of blood will become excluded from the dance, which is the warrior's right, and thereby will the dance become a false dance and the dancers false dancers. And yet there be one there always who is a true dancer and can you guess who that might be? You ain't nothing.””

Cormac McCarthy

About This Quote

Source Novel: Blood Meridian, 1985

He describes a war where honor is questioned, suggesting that true warriors are those who uphold integrity, while false dances symbolize corrupted combat.

In simple terms: War’s honor is questioned; true warriors stay pure.

Key Takeaway

Seek integrity amidst conflict.

Themes

war honor integrity

Mood

philosophical poetic

Type

literature reflection

When to use this quote

  • military ethics
  • conflict resolution
  • personal conscience

Key Concepts

morality violence identity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who do you consider a true dancer in life?
  • Can honor survive in war?
A Different Perspective

True integrity may be rare in violent contexts.

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