"I distrust Great Men. They produce a desert of uniformity around them and often a pool of blood too, and I always feel a little man's pleasure when they come a cropper"
- E. M. Forster
About this Quote
E. M. Forster's quote talks to the threats of placing excessive rely on powerful figures. He reveals his suspect of "Great Men" who, in their pursuit of power, frequently create a "desert of harmony" and a "swimming pool of blood" in their wake. Forster implies that these powerful figures are frequently oppressive and violent, and he gets a kick out of their failure. This quote talks to the concept that unchecked power can be harmful and that it is important to be careful of those in positions of authority. It likewise recommends that it is necessary to celebrate when those in power are held liable for their actions. Ultimately, Forster's quote acts as a tip that power must be used responsibly and that it must not be abused.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"