War Quote by Thomas Pynchon
““To rule forever," continues the Chinaman, later, "it is necessary only to create, among the people one would rule, what we call...Bad History. Nothing will produce Bad History more directly nor brutally, than drawing a Line, in particular a Right Line, the very Shape of Contempt, through the midst of a People,-- to create thus a Distinction betwixt 'em,-- 'tis the first stroke.-- All else will follow as if predestin'd, unto War and Devastation.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Gravity's Rainbow, 1973
Creating a false, hateful narrative about a group fuels contempt, leading to conflict and devastation.
In simple terms: Bad history is made by labeling people as enemies.
Key Takeaway
Avoid scapegoating; seek shared humanity.
Themes
propaganda
division
conflict
history
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
analysis
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- media
- education
- community building
Key Concepts
social engineering
othering
political manipulation
Questions to Reflect On
- What narratives do you accept uncritically?
- How can you promote inclusive stories?
A Different Perspective
Over‑simplification can ignore complex causes of conflict.
