There is a false modesty, which is vanity; a false glory, which is levity; a false grandeur, which is meanness; a false virtue, which is hypocrisy, and a false wisdom, which is prudery.
Jean De La BruyereRead
Journalism is just a gun. It’s only got one bullet in it, but if you aim right, that’s all you need. Aim it right, and you can blow a kneecap off the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Journalism is a powerful tool that, if used correctly, can have a significant impact on society.
Warren Ellis's quote compares journalism to a gun, emphasizing the notion that it is a formidable force when wielded with precision and care. The metaphor suggests that, like a single bullet, a well-aimed piece of journalism can have a tremendous effect, symbolically 'blowing off a kneecap' of the world by revealing truths, challenging norms, or inciting change. It highlights the importance of purpose and focus in the craft of journalism, indicating that meaningful impact doesn't necessarily require volume or multiple attempts, but rather skill and intention in delivery.
Themes
JournalismPowerImpactTruthPrecision
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the importance of investigative reporting, one might quote Ellis to highlight the power of focused journalism.
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