Computers Quote by James Hilton
““tribesmen came forward from all directions, surrounding the machine and effectively preventing any one from getting out of it except the pilot. The latter clambered to earth and held excited colloquy with them, during which proceeding it became clear that, so far from being Fenner, he was not an Englishman at all, and possibly not even a European. Meanwhile cans of gasoline were fetched from a dump close by, and emptied into the exceptionally capacious tanks. Grins and disregarding silence met the shouts of the four imprisoned passengers, while the slightest attempt to alight provoked a menacing movement from a score of rifles. Conway, who knew a little Pushtu, harangued the tribesmen as well as he could in that language, but without effect; while the pilot’s sole retort to any remarks addressed to him in any language was a significant flourish of his revolver. Midday sunlight, blazing on the roof of the cabin, grilled the air inside till the occupants were almost fainting with the heat and with the exertion of their protests. They were quite powerless; it had been a condition””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Lost Horizon by James Hilton, 1933
A group is trapped in a hostile environment, unable to escape due to external threats and internal power dynamics.
In simple terms: People can be trapped by circumstances and power struggles.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address power imbalances.
Themes
conflict
power
survival
culture
authority
Mood
tense
oppressive
Type
narrative
dramatic
When to use this quote
- military standoffs
- political negotiations
- disaster response
- prisoner dilemmas
Key Concepts
colonialism
identity
control
communication
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when trapped by forces beyond your control?
- What strategies can reduce reliance on violence?
A Different Perspective
Power can be exercised through intimidation, limiting agency.
