John Amery Quotes

Powerful John Amery for Daily Growth

About John Amery

John Amery (1923-1945), a British writer and propagandist, is perhaps best known for his role in Nazi Germany during World War II. Born on August 6, 1923, to Leo Amery, a prominent Conservative politician, and Diana Cooper, a socialite, John grew up in a family of significant political influence. Initially educated at Eton College, John's interest in politics was fostered early. However, his life took an unexpected turn when he fell under the ideological sway of Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany during the late 1930s. This shift can be attributed to various factors, including a sense of alienation from mainstream British society and a desire for adventure. In 1940, John joined the British Army but was discharged due to health issues. Subsequently, he moved to occupied Paris and worked as a propagandist for the Nazi regime. He produced radio broadcasts in English that were aimed at British audiences, promoting German victory and discouraging resistance. In 1943, John returned to London under a pseudonym, where he wrote a series of articles for the Nazi propaganda publication "Germany Speaks." His most notable work during this time was "Letters from a Lost Leader," a collection of fictional letters purportedly written by Winston Churchill, criticizing the British government and advocating peace with Germany. John's actions were not without controversy and attracted significant criticism. He was eventually betrayed to British intelligence and arrested in 1944. After a brief trial, he was sentenced to death for high treason. John Amery died by suicide on November 16, 1945, at Wandsworth Prison before his execution could take place. John Amery's life remains a complex and controversial chapter in British history, often discussed in relation to themes of ideological extremism, political alienation, and the impact of family background on personal choices.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"In war there is no regard for the artist, the dreamer, or the thinker."

This quote highlights that in a state of war, the traditional roles and values of artists, dreamers, and thinkers, who often pursue peace, creativity, and intellectualism, are often disregarded due to the survival-focused nature of conflict. It suggests that these peaceful, contemplative individuals may face hardship or marginalization during wartime as their skills and perspectives are not considered essential for battle or victory. The quote underscores the contrast between the destructive nature of war and the creative, reflective nature of artists, dreamers, and thinkers.


"Courage is not a man with a gun in his hand. It's a man who knows no fear; it's a man who has defeated his fears."

This quote suggests that courage is not merely physical bravery, such as being armed or having the power to intimidate. Instead, true courage lies in overcoming one's personal fears, demonstrating mental strength and resilience. In other words, a courageous individual is someone who faces their apprehensions head-on and emerges victorious over them.


"The harder you work for something, the greater you'll feel when you achieve it."

This quote by John Amery suggests that the effort and persistence invested in achieving a goal significantly enhance the sense of accomplishment and satisfaction one experiences upon its attainment. The deeper the effort, the more profound the resulting fulfillment. Essentially, working hard for something not only increases the likelihood of success but also intensifies the emotional reward experienced when that success is achieved.


"The only way to do great work is to love what you do."

This quote by John Amery emphasizes that genuine passion and love for one's work are essential ingredients for achieving remarkable results or doing 'great work'. It suggests that when we genuinely care about our tasks, we tend to be more motivated, dedicated, and inspired, leading to superior outcomes.


"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself."

This quote emphasizes the idea that life isn't merely a journey of self-discovery, but one of personal growth and transformation. It encourages individuals to proactively shape their own identities, values, and purpose instead of passively waiting for self-realization to happen. Essentially, it's about taking charge of our lives, making conscious choices, and actively creating the person we want to become.


That is why I come forward tonight without any political label, without any bias, but just simply as an Englishman to say to you: a crime is being committed against civilization.

- John Amery

Forward, Committed, Tonight, Label

Not only the priceless heritage of our fathers, of our seamen, of our Empire builders is being thrown away in a war that serves no British interests - but our alliance leader Stalin dreams of nothing but the destruction of that heritage of our fathers?

- John Amery

Leader, Builders, Fathers, Priceless

Three Royal Air Force aeroplanes have come over to us so far with their arms and equipment.

- John Amery

Over, Equipment, Come, Aeroplanes

For two years living in a neutral country I have been able to see through the haze of propaganda to reach something which my conscience tells me is the truth.

- John Amery

Country, Through, Which, Haze

All men will commence in their present rank and promotion will be open to all men alike, without any distinctions or qualifications, political or otherwise.

- John Amery

Will, Commence, Otherwise, Rank

It is up to you civilians to give a hand to show that we intend to take our responsibilities to maintain the integrity of our Empire, by giving the world proof that we have not all sold out to the Jew or Plutocrat.

- John Amery

Give, Maintain, Sold, Empire

In violation of the Habeas Corpus Act and the fundamental laws of our constitution these men have never been brought to trail or even allowed to see a lawyer.

- John Amery

Constitution, Laws, Been, Lawyer

American troops have not only occupied Ulster but are arriving in increasing numbers in England.

- John Amery

England, Only, Increasing, Occupied

I appeal to all Britishers to answer this call to arms for the defence of all the principles that we Englishmen have been the first to proclaim in the world.

- John Amery

Been, Appeal, Defence, Englishmen

It came as a great shock to me when I heard that England and Soviet Russia had become allies. So much so that I thought that the people responsible in London were acting in a manner that no longer coincided with British imperial interests.

- John Amery

Thought, London, Had, Allies

Listeners will wonder what an Englishman is doing on the German radio tonight. You can imagine that before taking this step I hoped that someone better qualified than me would come forward.

- John Amery

Qualified, Tonight, German, Englishman

It is up to you to decide that this has lasted long enough, that our boys are dying to serve no British interest but for the interests of a small clique of utterly unscrupulous men.

- John Amery

Small, Decide, British, Clique

It is not the Government, the members of Parliament to whom the ultimate decision belongs, it is up to you to go forward sure of your sacred right of free opinion, sure of your patriotism.

- John Amery

Decision, Sure, Ultimate, Parliament

There is more than enough room in the world for Germany and Britain.

- John Amery

World, More, Than, Britain

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