And it came down to this: In the moment when I truly understand my enemy, understand him well enough to defeat him, then in that very moment I also love him. I think it's impossible to really understand somebody, what they want, what they believe, and not love them the way they love themselves. And then, in the very moment when I love them--You beat them. For a moment she was not afraid of his understanding.No, you don't understand. I destroy them. I make it impossible for them to ever hurt me again. I grind them and grind them until they don't exist.

πŸ“– Orson Scott Card

🌍 American  |  πŸ‘¨β€πŸ’Ό Writer

πŸŽ‚ August 24, 1951
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The quote reflects the deep complexities of understanding one's enemy, suggesting that true comprehension of another's desires and beliefs fosters a sense of love for them. The speaker implies that this profound understanding can simultaneously lead to victory over the adversary, as it enables one to anticipate and outmaneuver them effectively. This duality highlights how connection can arise even in conflict.

The speaker also reveals a darker aspect of this understanding, expressing a desire to completely eradicate those enemies. The fear and conflict transform into a ruthless ambition to ensure that they can never cause harm again. This ambivalence showcases the tension between empathy and the instinct to protect oneself from perceived threats, ultimately revealing the thin line between love and destruction.

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January 30, 2025

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