Bran Quote by George R.R. Martin
““You were small, but far-famed. We were in Oldtown at your birth, and all the city talked of was the monster that had been born to the King’s Hand, and what such an omen might foretell for the realm.” “Famine, plague, and war, no doubt.” Tyrion gave a sour smile. “It’s always famine, plague, and war. Oh, and winter, and the long night that never ends.” “All that,” said Prince Oberyn, “and your father’s fall as well. Lord Tywin had made himself greater than King Aerys, I heard one begging brother preach, but only a god is meant to stand above a king. You were his curse, a punishment sent by the gods to teach him that he was no better than any other man.” “I try, but he refuses to learn.” Tyrion gave a sigh. “But do go on, I pray you. I love a good tale.” “And well you might, since you were said to have one, a stiff curly tail like a swine’s.””
About This Quote
Source Book: A Storm of Swords, George R.R. Martin, 2000
A character reflects on ominous signs and the cyclical nature of disaster, suggesting fate and divine punishment shape history.
In simple terms: Bad omens and repeated hardships define a ruler’s fate.
Key Takeaway
Recognize patterns of crisis and act early.
Themes
fate
power
divine punishment
history
politics
Mood
grim
reflective
serious
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- court politics
- war planning
- leadership decisions
- public morale
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
mythology
political intrigue
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when signs seem ominous?
- Can you change a foretold destiny?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes a deterministic view, ignoring human agency.
