I'll tell you something, and this is true: I've never been able to write a film which I didn't respect. I just can't do it. I'm very happy about all the films I haven't done.
Harold PinterRead
There was one man in the Labour government, Robin Cook, whom I had a very high regard for. He had the courage to speak out and to resign over Iraq. He was an admirable man. But resignation over a matter of principle is not a very fashionable thing in our society.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the rarity of principled resignation in society.
Harold Pinter reflects on Robin Cook's decision to resign from the Labour government in protest against the Iraq war, emphasizing the commendable courage it takes to stand by one’s principles. In a world where conformity often prevails, Cook's act of resignation serves as a reminder that upholding one’s values can be a challenging but noble pursuit, even if it is not widely accepted or appreciated in society.
Themes
CouragePrincipleResignationIntegrityPolitics
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a speech about ethical leadership in politics.
More from Harold Pinter
All quotes →All that happens is that the destruction of human beings - unless they're Americans - is called collateral damage.
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I never think of myself as wise. I think of myself as possessing a critical intelligence which I intend to allow to operate.
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It's so easy for propaganda to work, and dissent to be mocked.
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There are places in my heart...where no living soul...has...or can ever...trespass.
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