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Foolish man Quote by Howard Fast

“Could be off one of your own boats, Lavette," Whittier said. "The crab I mean." Whittier was hostile, contriving his hostility in witless remarks. Dan said nothing, only thinking that if this small, pompous, foolish man, so uninformed about the essence of his own business, was a measure of the…” quote by Howard Fast
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““Could be off one of your own boats, Lavette," Whittier said. "The crab I mean." Whittier was hostile, contriving his hostility in witless remarks. Dan said nothing, only thinking that if this small, pompous, foolish man, so uninformed about the essence of his own business, was a measure of the hundred tycoons who ruled the hills of San Francisco, then his own way up would be none too difficult. It came down to money; if you had money, you functioned and you could do without guts or brains; and if you had money, you saw a girl like Jean Sheldon more than once, more than by accident.””

Howard Fast

About This Quote

Money can replace courage and intellect, allowing the privileged to succeed without merit.

In simple terms: Wealth can substitute for guts and brains.

Key Takeaway

Beware of money’s influence.

Themes

wealth power social hierarchy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

social political

When to use this quote

  • business negotiations
  • social mobility discussions
  • political campaigns

Key Concepts

sociology economic inequality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does wealth affect meritocracy?
  • Can integrity overcome financial advantage?
A Different Perspective

Not all success is money‑driven.

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