Skip to content

Athletes Quote by E.M. Forster

“Athletes, he believed, were simple, straightforward people, cruel and brutal if you like, but never petty. They knocked you down and hurt you, and then went on their way rejoicing.” quote by E.M. Forster
Download Open image
““Athletes, he believed, were simple, straightforward people, cruel and brutal if you like, but never petty. They knocked you down and hurt you, and then went on their way rejoicing.””

E.M. Forster

About This Quote

Source Novel: A Passage to India, E.M. Forster, 1924

Athletes are portrayed as direct, harsh, yet not petty; they cause pain but move on.

In simple terms: Athletes are blunt and tough.

Key Takeaway

Respect strength without malice.

Themes

sports character ethics

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • team sports
  • coaching
  • spectator experience

Key Concepts

masculinity competition

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you see athletes as more than their actions?
  • How does this view affect sportsmanship?
A Different Perspective

Overgeneralizing athletes can be unfair.

2.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by E.M. Forster

Explore all 274 E.M. Forster quotes

More Athletes quotes

Browse all 601 Athletes quotes