Failure Quote by Sinclair Lewis
““Doremus was amazed, felt a little apologetic over his failure to have appreciated this new-found paragon, as he sat in American Legion Hall and heard Shad bellowing: “I don’t pretend to be anything but a plain working-stiff, but there’s forty million workers like me, and we know that Senator Windrip is the first statesman in years that thinks of what guys like us need before he thinks one doggone thing about politics. Come on, you bozos! The swell folks tell you to not be selfish! Walt Trowbridge tells you to not be selfish! Well, be selfish, and vote for the one man that’s willing to give you something—give you something!—and not just grab off every cent and every hour of work that he can get!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: It Can't Happen Here by Sinclair Lewis, 1935
The narrator describes a populist politician who appeals to workers by promising selfishness and personal gain, contrasting with self‑less rhetoric.
In simple terms: A politician promises selfish benefits to win workers.
Key Takeaway
Beware of leaders who exploit self‑interest.
Themes
politics
populism
manipulation
self‑interest
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
analysis
satire
When to use this quote
- campaign speeches
- labor rallies
- media commentary
- voter persuasion
Key Concepts
propaganda
charismatic authority
Questions to Reflect On
- What signs indicate a politician is using selfish appeals?
- How can voters discern genuine concern from self‑interest?
A Different Perspective
The quote exaggerates for satire, may not reflect all political dynamics.
