Weather is a literary specialty, and no untrained hand can turn out a good article on it
Mark TwainRead
I asked Tom if countries always apologized when they had done wrong, and he says - "Yes; the little ones does".
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that smaller nations often take responsibility for their mistakes, unlike larger ones which may avoid accountability.
Mark Twain's quote reflects on the nature of accountability and humility in international relations. By stating that 'the little ones do' apologize for wrongdoings, Twain implies that smaller countries are more likely to admit their faults, while larger, more powerful nations may not feel the same obligation. This highlights a disparity in moral responsibility based on a nation's size and power, suggesting that humility in the face of wrongdoing is often found in those who have less power.
Themes
AccountabilityHumilityInternational RelationsResponsibilityPower Dynamics
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about diplomatic relations, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of accountability among nations.
More from Mark Twain
All quotes βThe easy part of being an artist is figuring out the message that everyone else is ready to hear. The hard part is waiting for the proper lull to make the announcement.
Mark TwainRead
You can't reason with your heart; it has its own laws, and thumps about things which the intellect scorns.
Mark TwainRead
To be good is noble; but to show others how to be good is nobler and no trouble.
Mark TwainRead
Name the greatest of all inventors. Accident.
Mark TwainRead
In Paris they just simply opened their eyes and stared when we spoke to them in French! We never did succeed in making those idiots understand their own language.
Mark TwainRead
Similar quotes
Show your contempt for the problem and your concern for the person.
Jim RohnRead
I wish I could say something classy and inspirational, but that just wouldn't be our style. ... Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory... lasts forever.
Keanu ReevesRead
Keep one thing in view forever- the truth; and if you do this, though it may seem to lead you away from the opinion of men, it will assuredly conduct you to the throne of God.
Horace MannRead
Don't judge me by the cover, 'cause I'm a real good book.
Dolly PartonRead
What do years have to do with age?
Leo BuscagliaRead
If you spend your life trying to please people or letting them control you, you may make them happy, but you'll miss your destiny.
Joel OsteenRead