Front door Quote by Lois McMaster Bujold
““It would be almost a public service to dangle the alternatives in front of the widow before Miles got her mind all turned inside out like he did everyone else’s. But . . . Miles had extracted his word from Ivan, with downright ruthless determination. Forced it, practically, and a forced oath was no oath at all. The way around this dilemma occurred to Ivan between one step and the next; his lips pursed in a sudden whistle. The scheme was nearly . . . Milesian. Cosmic justice, to serve the dwarf a dish with his own sauce. By the time Pym let him out the front door, Ivan was smiling again.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Moon Is a Harsh Mistress, 1966
A character manipulates promises and oaths, using ruthless determination to achieve personal justice.
In simple terms: He forces oaths to serve his own justice.
Key Takeaway
Beware of coercive promises.
Themes
power
manipulation
justice
determination
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political intrigue
- legal disputes
- personal relationships
- corporate negotiations
Key Concepts
ethical coercion
personal vendetta
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it ever ethical to force a promise?
- What are the costs of ruthless determination?
A Different Perspective
The ends may not justify the means.
