Skip to content

Enemies Quote by Taras Shevchenko

“There are no such enemies So dire as good people, They will rob you, mournfully, And condemn you, weeping, They'll invite you to their home, Welcome you profusely, Ask you all about yourself, To mock and abuse you, Later, mock at you and jeer, To grab you for sure... Without enemies on earth…” quote by Taras Shevchenko
Download Open image
““There are no such enemies So dire as good people, They will rob you, mournfully, And condemn you, weeping, They'll invite you to their home, Welcome you profusely, Ask you all about yourself, To mock and abuse you, Later, mock at you and jeer, To grab you for sure... Without enemies on earth Somehow one can endure. But those good people yet will Everywhere beset you, Even in the other world They will not forget you.””

Taras Shevchenko

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Enemies of Good People” by Taras Shevchenko, 1845

Good people can become harmful through false kindness, betrayal, and relentless criticism, making them more dangerous than overt enemies.

In simple terms: Kind people can hurt you more than obvious foes.

Key Takeaway

Beware superficial kindness that masks malice.

Themes

betrayal trust social dynamics

Mood

cautious reflective skeptical

Type

advice observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace
  • online interactions
  • family gatherings

Key Concepts

psychology human behavior social manipulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate genuine support from hidden agendas?
  • When have you felt betrayed by someone you trusted?
A Different Perspective

Even well‑intentioned people may act selfishly; intentions matter.

4.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Taras Shevchenko

Explore all 3 Taras Shevchenko quotes

More Enemies quotes

Browse all 1,888 Enemies quotes