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Age Quote by John Buchan

“It would scarcely be destruction," he replied gently. "Let us call it iconoclasm, the swallowing of formulas, which has always had its full retinue of idealists. And you do not want a Napoleon . All that is needed is direction, which could be given by men of far lower gifts than a Bonaparte. In a…” quote by John Buchan
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“It would scarcely be destruction," he replied gently. "Let us call it iconoclasm, the swallowing of formulas, which has always had its full retinue of idealists. And you do not want a Napoleon . All that is needed is direction, which could be given by men of far lower gifts than a Bonaparte. In a word, you want a Power-House, and then the age of miracles will begin.”

John Buchan

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Power-House by John Buchan, 1912

The passage argues that radical change comes from rejecting old formulas and embracing visionary direction, not from individual geniuses.

In simple terms: Change needs new ideas, not just great leaders.

Key Takeaway

Seek fresh direction, not heroic figures.

Themes

change vision leadership idealism miracles

Mood

thoughtful critical inspirational

Type

philosophical analytical literary

When to use this quote

  • organizational reform
  • political movements
  • technological innovation
  • cultural shifts

Key Concepts

iconoclasm direction power dynamics historical cycles

Questions to Reflect On

  • What structures enable lasting change?
  • How can we balance vision with practical leadership?
A Different Perspective

Great individuals alone cannot guarantee transformative change.

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