Hippopotamus Quote by Mario Vargas Llosa
““they knew what we’re doing for them, they’d kiss our feet. But mentally they are closer to the crocodile and the hippopotamus than to you or me. That’s why we decide what is good for them and have them sign those contracts.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Feast of the Goat, Mario Vargas Llosa, 2000
Describes power dynamics where those in authority manipulate and exploit vulnerable groups.
In simple terms: Highlights manipulation by those in power.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and protect the vulnerable.
Themes
power
exploitation
manipulation
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
political
social
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- labor contracts
- social policy
- community organizing
Key Concepts
colonialism
economic disparity
contractual oppression
Questions to Reflect On
- Who truly benefits from these contracts?
- How can marginalized voices be amplified?
A Different Perspective
Complex motives may be oversimplified.
![“[his healing skills] ..lay in the ability to comfort, to comfort in the proper sense, to make strong, to fortify from The Hippopotamus” quote by Stephen Fry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/8de/stephen-fry-573_comfort_his-healing-skills-lay-in-the-ability-to_1289595.jpg)
