Brother Quote by William Lloyd Garrison
“I am accused of using hard language. I admit the charge. I have not been able to find a soft word to describe villainy or to identify the perpetrator of it. The man who makes a chattel of his brother - what is he? The man who keeps back the hire of his laborers by fraud - what is he?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Anti‑Slavery Address, 1851
The speaker argues that harsh language is necessary to label oppression, questioning the morality of those who exploit others.
In simple terms: Harsh words expose true evil; soft words hide it.
Key Takeaway
Use precise language to condemn injustice.
Themes
justice
language
morality
exploitation
Mood
urgent
serious
Type
oratorical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- legal reform
- education
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Ethics
rhetoric
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- When is harsh language effective?
- How to balance truth and persuasion?
A Different Perspective
Strong language can alienate potential allies.
