QuoteProject
When I go to hell, I mean to carry a bribe: for look you, good gifts evermore make way for the worst persons.
John Webster
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote suggests that people often try to manipulate situations to their advantage with gifts or favors, even in dire circumstances.

John Webster's quote reflects on the moral implications of bribery and the idea that generosity can sometimes be a tool for those with ill intentions. It implies a cynical view of human nature, suggesting that even in the worst scenarios, people might resort to corrupt practices to navigate their way through life, often benefiting the least deserving individuals.

Themes

BriberyMoralityHuman NatureCorruptionGifts

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech addressing the corruption in politics, one might use this quote to highlight how favors can influence those in power.

More from John Webster

A politician is the devil's quilted anvil; He fashions all sins on him, and the blows are never heard.
John WebsterRead
Men often are valued high, when they are most wretched.
John WebsterRead

Similar quotes

Those who play with the devil's toys will be brought by degrees to wield his sword.
R. Buckminster FullerRead
Our society is dependent on some precarious mechanisms, and they are very dicey. They can easily collapse.
Doris LessingRead
It is man's unique privilege, among all other organisms. By pursuing falsehood you will arrive at the truth!
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
Choice of evils debates always produce extremism - people choose what they hope is the lesser evil, then call it good and demonize the other choice. It will be a challenge for your generation to synthesize - to move beyond Us versus Them, to We.
Margaret AtwoodRead
War's Legitimate Object Is More Perfect Peace.
William Tecumseh ShermanRead
It is odd that neither the Church nor modern public opinion condemns petting, provided it stops short at a certain point. At what point sin begins is a matter as to which casuists differ. One eminently orthodox Catholic divine laid it down that a confessor may fondle a nun's breasts, provided he does it without evil intent. But I doubt whether modern authorities would agree with him on this point.
Bertrand RussellRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.