Tom Stoppard Quotes

Ronan didn't need physics. He could intimidate even a piece of plywood into doing what he wanted.

I consider myself a persuasive person. With the ability to persuade comes a certain level of power.

I always get my way.

I have with me two gods, Persuasion and Compulsion.

Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.

Persuasion is often more effectual than force.

I think it was when I realised I could talk anybody into doing just about anything I wanted them to.

I don't believe in strong-arming people.

Our sense of power is more vivid when we break a man's spirit than when we win his heart.

I think the power of persuasion would be the greatest superpower of all time.

When you can't make them see the light, make them feel the heat.

I can make men follow me to hell.

It is one thing to persuade, another to command …

If you've got 'em by the balls, their hearts and minds will follow.

It's your constitutional right, but if I were you, I wouldn't do it. I can do better for you.

I can frighten or buy ninety-nine out of every one hundred men.

Children use all their wiles to get their way with adults. Adults do the same with children.

The most important thing about power is to make sure you don't have to use it.

Power is a tool, influence is a skill; one is a fist, the other a fingertip.

When you have real power you don't threaten. People know what your capabilities are.

It's funny. All you have to do is say something nobody understands and they'll do practically anything you want them to.

Tactics are manipulative.

Silence is the ultimate weapon of power.

I've been dealing with politicians all my life. All my life. And I've always gotten them to do what I need them to do.

Politics is the skilled use of blunt objects.