Nitroglycerin Quote by José Rizal
““Yes, nitroglycerin,” Simoun repeated slowly, with a frigid smile, staring at the glass flask with delight. “It’s more than nitroglycerin, however. It’s a concentration of tears, compressed, hatred, injustices, offenses. This is the supreme arbiter of weakness, force against force, violence against violence . . . a moment ago I was hesitating, but then you arrived and convinced me. Tonight those most dangerous of tyrants who have hidden behind God and the state, whose abuses remain unpunished because no one can take them to task. Tonight, the Philippines will hear an explosion that will convert into rubble the infamous monument whose rottenness I helped bring about.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: El Filibusterismo by José Rizal, 1891
A revolutionary vows to use a powerful chemical as a weapon against oppressive forces, seeing it as a tool of justice against tyrants.
In simple terms: A rebel plans to use a deadly chemical to strike corrupt powers.
Key Takeaway
Consider the moral cost of violent resistance.
Themes
revolution
justice
violence
political change
Mood
determined
angry
hopeful
Type
political
dramatic
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political protest
- activist planning
- historical context
- ethical debate
Key Concepts
chemical warfare
moral dilemma
oppression
rebel motivation
Questions to Reflect On
- Is violent uprising ever justified?
- What alternatives exist to confront tyranny?
A Different Perspective
Violence may perpetuate cycles of suffering and undermine moral legitimacy.
