Left hand Quote by Dorothy Dunnett
““Moving forward quietly to Jerott’s side, Adam Blacklock had heard. ‘Don’t you understand? The authorities are afraid of them both,’ he said gently. ‘Why do you supose this cordon is here, which only an unarmed girl was allowed to pass through? Lymond, loyal to Scotland, might be a threat to French power greater than even Gabriel, one of these days—Philippa!’ And a wordless shout, like a cry at a cockfight, rose among the stone pillars and sank muffled into the old, dusty banners above the choir roof. For Philippa Somerville, who believed in action when words were not enough, had leaned over and snatched the knife from Lymond’s left hand.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: King Here the Seven Kingdoms, 1994
A character questions the unjust restrictions placed on individuals, highlighting the tension between authority and personal agency.
In simple terms: Authorities fear those who could challenge them, and action may be needed when words fail.
Key Takeaway
Act when words aren’t enough.
Themes
authority
rebellion
agency
justice
Mood
tense
determined
urgent
Type
literary
dramatic
political
When to use this quote
- Resistance to oppressive rules
- protecting allies
- making decisive choices
Key Concepts
Power dynamics
moral courage
political intrigue
Questions to Reflect On
- When should you intervene directly?
- What are the risks of defying authority?
A Different Perspective
The quote may romanticize violent action over diplomatic solutions.
