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Friendship Quote by Thea von Harbou

“Oh yes, Joh—oh yes! Your sin walks behind you like a good dog on the trail. It does not lose your scent, Joh—it remains always and always at your back. A friend is unarmed against his friend. He has no shield before his breast, nor armor before his heart. A friend who believes in his friend is a…” quote by Thea von Harbou
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““Oh yes, Joh—oh yes! Your sin walks behind you like a good dog on the trail.  It does not lose your scent, Joh—it remains always and always at your back.  A friend is unarmed against his friend.  He has no shield before his breast, nor armor before his heart.  A friend who believes in his friend is a defenseless man.  A defenseless man was it whom you betrayed, Joh.””

Thea von Harbou

About This Quote

Source Novel: Metropolis, 1925

A friend’s loyalty can become a burden, making one vulnerable to betrayal.

In simple terms: Friendship can be both support and weakness.

Key Takeaway

Guard trust while valuing friendship.

Themes

trust betrayal friendship

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • confiding in close allies
  • evaluating loyalty
  • protecting personal boundaries

Key Concepts

existential risk human connection

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who in your life balances support and risk?
  • How do you protect yourself without alienating friends?
A Different Perspective

Blind trust may lead to exploitation.

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