Answers Quote by Steven Erikson
![“Save your explanations, I got some questions for you first and you'd better answer them!' [slurred Hellian.] 'With what?' [Banaschar] sneered. 'Explanations?' 'No. Answers. There's a difference-' 'Really? How? What difference?' 'Explanations are what people use when they need to lie. Y'can always…” quote by Steven Erikson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d79/steven-erikson-588_answers_save-your-explanations-i-got-some-questi_1357072.jpg)
““Save your explanations, I got some questions for you first and you'd better answer them!' [slurred Hellian.] 'With what?' [Banaschar] sneered. 'Explanations?' 'No. Answers. There's a difference-' 'Really? How? What difference?' 'Explanations are what people use when they need to lie. Y'can always tell those,'cause those don't explain nothing and then they look at you like they just cleared things up when really they did the opposite and they know it and you know it and they know you know and you know they know that you know and they know you and you know them and maybe you go out for a pitcher later but who picks up the tab? That's what I want to know.' 'Right, and answers?' 'Answers is what I get when I ask questions. Answers is when you got no choice. I ask, you tell. I ask again, you tell some more. Then I break your fingers, 'cause I don't like what you're telling me, because those answers don't explain nothing!””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Malazan Book of the Fallen, 2000s
The speaker distinguishes explanations (used to obfuscate) from answers (forced compliance), highlighting manipulation and power dynamics in dialogue.
In simple terms: Explanations hide truth; answers force obedience.
Key Takeaway
Beware coercive questioning.
Themes
power
manipulation
communication
Mood
tense
critical
Type
philosophical
dialogue
When to use this quote
- debate
- interrogation
- authoritarian demands
- conflict resolution
- critical thinking
Key Concepts
Control
truth
authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate genuine answers from forced ones?
- What role does power play in shaping dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Answers may be coerced, not genuine.
