You can build a throne with bayonets, but it's difficult to sit on it.
Boris YeltsinRead
Storm clouds of terror and dictatorship are gathering over the whole country... They must not be allowed to bring eternal night.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of resisting oppression and fighting for freedom in the face of tyranny.
Boris Yeltsin's quote reflects a critical moment in history where the threat of dictatorship looms large. He urges the people to stand firm against oppressive forces, highlighting the need for courage and action to prevent a descent into a dark and oppressive regime. The phrase 'eternal night' symbolizes the loss of freedom and hope that comes with unchecked authoritarianism.
In practice
During a speech at a rally against authoritarianism.
You can build a throne with bayonets, but it's difficult to sit on it.
Liberty sets the mind free, fosters independence and unorthodox thinking and ideas. But it does not offer instant prosperity or happiness and wealth to everyone.
We don't appreciate what we have until it's gone. Freedom is like that. It's like air. When you have it, you don't notice it.
Am I afraid of high notes? Of course I am afraid. What sane man is not?
A war undertaken and brazenly carried on for the perpetual enslavement of colored men, calls logically and loudly for colored men to help suppress it.
Though much is taken, much abides; and though We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.
Have no fear of moving into the unknown. Simply step out fearlessly knowing that I am with you, therefore no harm can befall you; all is very, very well. Do this in complete faith and confidence.
A sound of cornered-animal fear and hate and surrender and defiance . . . like the last sound the treed and shot and falling animal makes as the dogs get him, when he finally doesn't care about anything but himself and his dying.
I know that if I wasn't scared, something's wrong, because the thrill is what's scary.
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