"As someone who worked hard for a Labour victory in the 90s, do I regret it? Not really. It was bound to happen. And it'll happen with the next government, and the one after it. Because all governments serve us. They serve the filth"
About this Quote
In this quote by Stephen Fry, he assesses his previous efforts in supporting the Labour Party's success during the 1990s. His tone recommends a sense of resignation and acceptance of political realities, instead of straight-out regret. Fry acknowledges the inevitability of political cycles and seems to imply that disillusionment is an intrinsic part of engaging in politics.
The declaration "It was bound to happen" recommends Fry's belief in the cyclical nature of political power where every federal government, regardless of its preliminary intentions or promises, eventually falls into comparable patterns of governance. This can be interpreted as a critique of how political systems, regardless of changes in management or ideology, consistently end up serving entrenched interests over time.
Fry's assertion that "all governments serve us. They serve the filth" is particularly pointed. Here, "the dirt" can be comprehended as a metaphor for the darker, perhaps more corruptible components of society-- business interests, power brokers, or any influential entities that may prioritize their interests above the public's. Fry appears to reveal cynicism toward the notion that any government really serves its people altruistically. Rather, he suggests that governments ultimately end up being subservient to these effective influences, despite their initial agenda or party platform.
Through this lens, Fry's quote can be seen as a reflection on the nature of political power and governance. It serves as a cautionary pointer of the consistent obstacles within political systems, where idealism frequently clashes with pragmatism and realpolitik. His reflections encourage a more comprehensive discussion about the responsibility of governments, the responsibilities of politicians, and the vigilance needed from people to ensure that governance stays in service to the general public good rather than devolving to serve select interests.
