"Poor is the power of the lead that becomes bullets compared to the power of the hot metal that becomes types"

Georg Brandes is referring to the tremendous power of the composed word as opposed to physical weapons. He suggests that lead bullets, though they may cause damage, are eventually inferior to the power of words. Hot metal that is changed into types (letters) has the prospective to shape hearts and minds, unite people, and alter the course of history. Brandes recommends that words are the most potent weapon on the planet, capable of developing and ruining. He emphasizes the power of concepts and the composed word as a means of influencing society and creating modification. Thus, the quote underscores the substantial effect that communication has on society.