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Corn Quote by Terry Pratchett

“Fear is a strange soil. It grows obedience like corn, which grow in straight lines to make weeding easier. But sometimes it grows the potatoes of defiance, which flourish underground.” quote by Terry Pratchett
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“Fear is a strange soil. It grows obedience like corn, which grow in straight lines to make weeding easier. But sometimes it grows the potatoes of defiance, which flourish underground.”

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

Source Novel: Discworld series, 1990s

Fear can enforce conformity, but also nurtures hidden resistance that can undermine that control.

In simple terms: Fear forces obedience but also fuels hidden rebellion.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and channel the defiant energy within.

Themes

conformity resistance power psychology

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • workplace hierarchy
  • authoritarian regimes
  • personal relationships
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

social control subversion psychological resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you turn fear into constructive defiance?
  • When does obedience become harmful?
A Different Perspective

Fear may be suppressed by overt authority, limiting its transformative potential.

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