"The dead past has its rights, but the living present has more."
This quote by Philip Kerr emphasizes that while we must respect and learn from history (the "dead past"), our primary focus should be on the current moment ("the living present"). The past gives us context, lessons, and traditions, but it is up to us in the present to apply those learnings to shape our future. It encourages a balance between honoring our heritage and moving forward with progress.
"There's no point in being alive if you can't be mistreated with impunity."
This quote suggests a deeply cynical perspective on human relationships and society, where one feels that abuse or mistreatment is an inevitable and unavoidable part of life. The speaker seems to imply that enduring such treatment without consequence is the true measure of being alive, and perhaps even of having value in society. It's a profoundly pessimistic viewpoint, implying a sense of powerlessness and despair, and questioning the purpose or fairness of human existence.
"Every action has an equal and opposite reaction – or the devil makes work for idle hands."
This quote suggests that every action, whether positive or negative, will invariably produce a consequence or reaction. It's a reminder that our actions have repercussions, good or bad, on ourselves or others. The phrase "or the devil makes work for idle hands" implies that when we don't take action or engage productively, opportunities or challenges may arise, often in the form of difficulties or problems to overcome, symbolized by the metaphorical "devil". In essence, it encourages us to stay active and proactive rather than being passive and inactive.
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
This quote by Philip Kerr emphasizes the power of inaction in the face of wrongdoing. It suggests that if individuals who possess moral integrity choose not to act against evil, it will eventually prevail. In other words, apathy or indifference can unintentionally aid the success of negative forces, reinforcing the importance of standing up for what is right and taking action against injustice.
"I was beginning to see that one's past was a kind of millstone that dragged you down, no matter what you did."
This quote suggests that one's past experiences or actions can have a burdening effect on an individual's present and future life. Regardless of the efforts made to move forward, the weight of the past (often associated with mistakes, regrets, or painful events) can hinder personal growth and progress, creating a sense of being held back or weighed down. It serves as a reminder that while our past shapes us, it doesn't have to define us if we actively work towards overcoming its effects.
A lot of crime writing suffers from treading water. I feel an obligation to move the character on and not repeat myself. I try to fit him into a different period and a different agenda. That way, you learn slightly more about his personal history in the tradition of the unreliable narrator. It makes it more challenging to write.
- Philip Kerr
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