Before They Are Hanged (The First Law, #2)

by Joe Abercrombie

Where does the nobles’ money come from but from taxes on the peasants in the fields? Who are their soldiers but the sons and husbands of common folk? What gives the lords their power? Only the compliance of their vassals, nothing more.

You’re still alive, aren’t you?” He gave a miserable nod. Logen slid his arm round his shoulder and guided him back towards the horses. “Then you’ve got the chance to do better next time.” “Next time?” “’Course. Doing better next time. That’s what life is.”

“Anyone can face ease and success with confidence. It is the way we face trouble and misfortune that defines us. Self-pity goes with selfishness, and there is nothing more to be deplored in a leader than that. Selfishness belongs to children, and to half-wits. A great leader puts others before himself. You would be surprised how acting so makes it easier to bear one’s own troubles. In order to act like a King, one need only treat everyone else like one.”

You get what you give, in the end.”

You are a dog, trying to understand the argument of scholars, and hearing nothing but barking.

he was starting to wonder if a long, poor life in utter obscurity would really be such a terrible thing.

Strange how, as long as the hardship lasts, we can stand it. As soon as the crisis is over, the strength all leeches away in an instant.

It was a bad day for men, all in all, and a good one for the ground. Always the way, after a battle. Only the ground wins.