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Flattery Quote by George Gordon Byron

“You are 'the best of cut-throats:'--do not start; The phrase is Shakespeare's, and not misapplied:-- War's a brain-spattering, windpipe-slitting art, Unless her cause by Right be sanctified. If you have acted once a generous part, The World, not the World's masters, will decide, And I shall be…” quote by George Gordon Byron
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““You are 'the best of cut-throats:'--do not start; The phrase is Shakespeare's, and not misapplied:-- War's a brain-spattering, windpipe-slitting art, Unless her cause by Right be sanctified. If you have acted once a generous part, The World, not the World's masters, will decide, And I shall be delighted to learn who, Save you and yours, have gained by Waterloo? I am no flatterer--you've supped full of flattery: They say you like it too--'tis no great wonder: He whose whole life has been assault and battery, At last may get a little tired of thunder; And swallowing eulogy much more than satire, he May like being praised for every lucky blunder; Called 'Saviour of the Nations'--not yet saved, And Europe's Liberator--still enslaved. I've done. Now go and dine from off the plate Presented by the Prince of the Brazils, And send the sentinel before your gate A slice or two from your luxurious meals: He fought, but has not fed so well of late...””

George Gordon Byron

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Vision of Judgment", 1822

War is glorified as heroic, yet it brings suffering and moral ambiguity, questioning the true nature of heroism.

In simple terms: War is praised but causes pain and doubt.

Key Takeaway

Question glorified narratives.

Themes

war heroism morality

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical controversial

When to use this quote

  • military service
  • political leadership
  • public discourse
  • historical analysis

Key Concepts

ethical paradox political critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines a true hero?
  • How does propaganda shape our view of war?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing war can ignore victims' suffering.

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