Literature & philosophy
Beware, for I am fearless and therefore powerful.
The creature speaking in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, chapter 20. This is a threat in a tragic conflict, not the author’s advice to pursue fearlessness.
An example
Placed on a motivational poster, this sentence might sound admirable. In the novel it is a threat. The words are unchanged, but removing the scene changes how a reader is invited to judge them.
Try it
Before sharing a quote, check who speaks, to whom, and what happens around it.
More context
The creature speaking in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, chapter 20. This is a threat in a tragic conflict, not the author’s advice to pursue fearlessness.
Sources & further reading
Mary Shelley · Frankenstein