Skip to content

Captains Quote by Terry Pratchett

“You just put that sword away, sir, please," said the voice of Lance-Constable Vimes. "You will not shoot me, you young idiot. That would be murder," said the captain calmly. "Not where I'm aiming, sir.” quote by Terry Pratchett
Download Open image
“You just put that sword away, sir, please," said the voice of Lance-Constable Vimes. "You will not shoot me, you young idiot. That would be murder," said the captain calmly. "Not where I'm aiming, sir.”

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

A captain defuses a tense standoff by refusing to fire, highlighting restraint and the absurdity of violence.

In simple terms: Restraint over aggression

Key Takeaway

Power lies in choosing not to act

Themes

Power dynamics Humor Conflict resolution Authority Absurdity

Mood

Wry Tense Playful

Type

Dialogue Narrative

When to use this quote

  • Negotiating with armed opponents
  • Defusing threats in a comedic setting
  • Leadership under pressure

Key Concepts

Nonviolent resistance Leadership Moral choice

Practical Applications

  • Teaching conflict de-escalation
  • Illustrating ethical decision-making

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does it mean to have control without using force?
  • How does humor change the perception of danger?
2.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Terry Pratchett

Explore all 3,330 Terry Pratchett quotes

More Captains quotes

Browse all 614 Captains quotes