Skip to content

Boards Quote by Gregory David Roberts

“The amount of force and violence necessary to board the train, for example was no less and no more than the amoount of politeness and consideration necessary to ensure that the cramped journey was as pleasant as possible afterwards. What is necessary? That was the unspoken but implied, and…” quote by Gregory David Roberts
Download Open image
“The amount of force and violence necessary to board the train, for example was no less and no more than the amoount of politeness and consideration necessary to ensure that the cramped journey was as pleasant as possible afterwards. What is necessary? That was the unspoken but implied, and unavoidable question everywhere in India.”

Gregory David Roberts

About This Quote

Source Novel: Shantaram, 2003

Politeness and consideration are as essential as force to make a cramped journey pleasant.

In simple terms: Courtesy matters as much as force.

Key Takeaway

Practice empathy in tight spaces.

Themes

courtesy conflict travel

Mood

tense reflective

Type

practical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • public transport
  • crowded events
  • negotiations
  • team projects

Key Concepts

social dynamics power balance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to enforce courtesy when ignored?
  • Can force ever replace empathy?
A Different Perspective

Politeness may be ignored.

3.3 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Gregory David Roberts

Explore all 276 Gregory David Roberts quotes

More Boards quotes

Browse all 1,220 Boards quotes