If I ever hear that 'can't make an omelet' phrase again, I'll start doing a little murder myself! It's used to justify every atrocity under every despotism, Fascist or Nazi, or Communist or American labor war. Omelet! Eggs! By God, sir, men's souls and blood are not eggshells for tyrants to break!

📖 Sinclair Lewis

🌍 American  |  👨‍💼 Novelist

🎂 February 7, 1885  –  ⚰️ January 10, 1951
(0 Reviews)

In Sinclair Lewis's "It Can't Happen Here," the author critiques the use of the phrase "you can't make an omelet without breaking eggs" as a dangerous justification for oppressive actions and regimes. He passionately argues that this metaphor is often exploited by tyrants, regardless of their political ideology, to rationalize atrocities and violence against the innocent.

Lewis emphasizes the gravity of human life and suffering, suggesting that reducing people to mere ingredients in a recipe for progress is grotesque. He insists that the struggle for freedom and dignity must not be sacrificed in the name of political or ideological gains, highlighting the importance of protecting individual rights against despotism.

Page views
7
Update
March 12, 2025

Rate the Quote

Add Comment & Review

User Reviews

Based on 0 reviews
5 Star
0
4 Star
0
3 Star
0
2 Star
0
1 Star
0
Add Comment & Review
We'll never share your email with anyone else.