Skip to content

Enemy Quote by Gore Vidal

“Never offend an enemy in a small way.” quote by Gore Vidal
Download Open image
“Never offend an enemy in a small way.”

Gore Vidal

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Best and the Worst" by Gore Vidal, 1975

Avoid minor offenses against enemies; they can escalate into larger conflicts.

In simple terms: Don’t insult enemies in small ways.

Key Takeaway

Practice restraint in conflict.

Themes

conflict pride strategy

Mood

cautionary strategic

Type

political personal

When to use this quote

  • political negotiations
  • personal rivalries
  • business competition

Key Concepts

diplomacy personal conduct

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is a small offense necessary?
  • How to repair minor damages?
A Different Perspective

Minor slights may be unavoidable.

2.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Gore Vidal

Explore all 539 Gore Vidal quotes

More Enemy quotes

Browse all 7,111 Enemy quotes