Language Quote by John Berger
![“The single word that counted on Wednesday was the one that came from the muzzle of a gun, addressed to somebody on their knees. Better to choose our hour than to accept this. We know each other. We've known each other from the time of Crocodilopolis. [Letter unsent]” quote by John Berger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0db/john-berger-1590_language_the-single-word-that-counted-on-wednesda_3195888.jpg)
““The single word that counted on Wednesday was the one that came from the muzzle of a gun, addressed to somebody on their knees. Better to choose our hour than to accept this. We know each other. We've known each other from the time of Crocodilopolis. [Letter unsent]””
About This Quote
Source Letter: Unsigned, possibly personal correspondence, unknown date
A powerful, threatening message is delivered, emphasizing the choice between confronting violence or submitting to it, rooted in a long shared history.
In simple terms: A threatening choice is presented, tied to a deep past.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when to confront oppression rather than submit.
Themes
power
choice
violence
history
relationships
Mood
tense
reflective
Type
political
personal
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- personal confrontations
- historical grievances
Key Concepts
authoritarianism
personal conflict
historical ties
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “choose our hour” mean to you?
- How does shared history affect power dynamics?
A Different Perspective
The quote assumes a direct, personal threat which may not apply universally.
![“There's the artist's intimacy and truthfulness to himself, but an equal intimacy to the Other [the one drawn]. Picasso drawings are like that... the Rembrandts are like that. The artist who most often did that was Van Gogh.” quote by John Berger](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/0d1/john-berger-1590_art_there-s-the-artist-s-intimacy-and-truthf_155171.jpg)
