Bait Quote by Leigh Bardugo
““I don’t think—” “Clearly. Why start now?” Ivan’s face flushed in anger. “You don’t—” Sturmhond leaned in close, the laughter gone from his voice, his easy demeanor replaced by something with a sword’s edge. “I don’t care who you are on land. On this ship, you’re nothing but ballast. Unless I put you over the side, in which case you’re shark bait. I like shark. Cooks up tough, but it makes for a little variety. Remember that the next time you have a mind to threaten anyone aboard this vessel.” He stepped back, his jolly manner restored. “Go on now, shark bait. Scurry back to your master.” “I won’t forget this, Sturmhond,” Ivan spat. The captain rolled his eyes. “That’s the idea.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Last Graduate, 2023
Power is wielded through intimidation, reducing dissenters to expendable objects, yet the speaker also offers a twisted sense of camaraderie.
In simple terms: The captain threatens crew members, calling them “shark bait.”
Key Takeaway
Recognize when authority uses fear to control and respond wisely.
Themes
power
intimidation
control
leadership
Mood
tense
dark
cynical
Type
advice
cautionary
When to use this quote
- Naval hierarchy
- team conflict
- disciplinary actions
Key Concepts
Psychology of authority
masculine aggression
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you faced intimidation that masked a hidden agenda?
- How do you maintain integrity under oppressive leadership?
A Different Perspective
Such threats can breed resentment and undermine loyalty.
