I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
James Russell LowellRead
Compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof; it is temporary expedient, often wise in party politics, almost sure to be unwise in statesmanship.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Compromise can be useful in the short term, but it often fails to provide a solid foundation for long-term solutions.
In this quote, James Russell Lowell highlights the idea that while compromise can serve as a useful short-term solution, akin to an umbrella that provides temporary protection from rain, it is inadequate for building a stable and enduring structure like a roof. He suggests that though compromises are sometimes necessary in political contexts, they can lead to poor decision-making in more significant governance matters, where lasting and principled solutions are required. This reflects the importance of steadfastness and clarity in leadership as opposed to settling for expedient agreements.
Themes
CompromisePoliticsStatesmanshipLeadershipGovernance
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be referenced in a political debate about the necessity of principled decision-making.
More from James Russell Lowell
All quotes βThe foolish and the dead alone never change their opinions.
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Good luck is the willing handmaid of upright, energetic character, and conscientious observance of duty.
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Puritanism, believing itself quick with the seed of religious liberty, laid, without knowing it, the egg of democracy.
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Books are the bees which carry the quickening pollen from one to another mind.
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