"You can build a throne with bayonets, but you can't sit on it for long"

This quote by Boris Yeltsin is an effective metaphor that highlights the short-term nature of using force and violence to gain power. Yeltsin, a former Russian president, is recommending that while it may be possible to powerfully establish oneself as a ruler, it is not a sustainable or long lasting option. The use of "bayonets" signifies using military force and hostility, while the "throne" represents a position of authority and control. Yeltsin is warning versus relying exclusively on violence and browbeating to preserve power, as it will eventually result in failure. Instead, he promotes for developing a strong structure of assistance and legitimacy to truly sit on a throne of power.