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Here, in Alethkar, men often spoke of the legends -- of mankind's hard-won victory over the Voidbringers. But when weapons created to fight nightmares were turned against common soldiers, the lives of men became cheap things indeed.
Brandon Sanderson
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects on the moral implications of warfare and the devaluation of human life in conflict.

In this quote, Brandon Sanderson critiques the concept of warfare, illustrating how tools and weapons initially designed to combat monstrous threats can ultimately be used against ordinary people. This transformation reveals a dark reality where the sanctity of life is lost, and the value of individual lives diminishes during times of conflict, leading society to grapple with the consequences of its choices.

Themes

WarValue Of LifeConflictMoralityHumanity

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech about the implications of war on society.

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There has to be a balance, Vin," Elend said. "Somehow, we'll find it. The balance between whom we wish to be and whom we need to be." He sighed. "But for now," he said, nodding to the side, "we simply have to be satisfied with who we are.
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At first glance, the key and the lock it fits may seem very different," Sazed said. "Different in shape, different in function, different in design. The man who looks at them without knowledge of their true nature might think them opposites, for one is meant to open, and the other to keep closed. Yet, upon closer examination he might see that without one, the other becomes useless. The wise man then sees that both lock and key were created for the same purpose.
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Every action we take has consequences, Vin," Kelsier said. "I've found that in both Allomancy and life, the person who can best judge the consequences of their actions will be the most successful.
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