Skip to content

Crime Quote by Evelyn Waugh

“Your colleague, Captain Grimes, has been convicted before me on evidence that leaves no possibility of his innocence - of a crime (I might almost call it a course of action) which I can neither understand nor excuse. I dare say I need not particularise.” quote by Evelyn Waugh
Download Open image
““Your colleague, Captain Grimes, has been convicted before me on evidence that leaves no possibility of his innocence - of a crime (I might almost call it a course of action) which I can neither understand nor excuse. I dare say I need not particularise.””

Evelyn Waugh

About This Quote

Source Novel: Decline and Fall, 1928

A judge acknowledges a crime so incomprehensible he cannot explain it, highlighting limits of legal reasoning.

In simple terms: Some crimes defy clear understanding.

Key Takeaway

Recognize when facts exceed reasoning.

Themes

justice uncertainty law morality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • court trials
  • military tribunals
  • ethical reviews

Key Concepts

legal limits ethical dilemmas interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should a judge admit uncertainty?
  • How do societies handle crimes beyond comprehension?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems may lack tools for ambiguous cases.

2.8 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Evelyn Waugh

Explore all 347 Evelyn Waugh quotes

More Crime quotes

Browse all 8,359 Crime quotes