[G]overnments always need enemies, even when they're not at… - Paul Auster

" "
[G]overnments always need enemies, even when they're not at war. If you don't have a real enemy, you make one up and spread the word. It scares the population, and when the people are scared, they tend not to step out of line.

Paul Auster

English

Collect this quote

About Paul Auster

Paul Auster (February 3, 1947 – April 30, 2024) was an American novelist, poet, screenwriter, essayist and editor. He is best known for novels such as The New York Trilogy, Leviathan, Mr. Vertigo, and The Book of Illusions. Some of the themes explored by Auster include: coincidence, failure, absence of father, as well as American space and history.

Also Known As

Alternative Names: Paul Benjamin • Paul Queen • Paul Benjamin Auster

All quotes from Paul Auster Similar Quotes by other Originators

Originators like Paul Auster:

John Steinbeck Ursula K. Le Guin William Faulkner James Baldwin Stephen King

Additional quotes by Paul Auster

For only the good doubt their own goodness, which is what makes them good in the first place. The bad know they are good, but the good know nothing. They spend their lives forgiving others, but they can't forgive themselves.

The story is not in the words; it's in the struggle.

That's what makes his story so impossible, David. Because he's told me the truth. (Alma to David on Hector)

[G]overnments always need enemies, even when they're not at war. If you don't have a real enemy, you make one up and spread the word. It scares the p… - Paul Auster

About Paul Auster

Also Known As

Advanced Search Filters

Additional quotes by Paul Auster

Go Premium