The Prince Quotes

“Who was this girl who thumbed her nose at two kingdoms and did as she pleased?”
― Mary E. Pearson, The Kiss of Deception

“You are my greatest virtue and my deepest vice.”
― Sylvain Reynard, The Raven

“These opportunities, then, gave these men the chance they needed, and their great abilities made them recognize it.”
― Machiavelli Niccolo

“Those who believe that where great personages are concerned new favors cause old injuries to be forgotten deceive themselves.”
― Machiavelli Niccolo

“The pauper is vulnerable to pride and pride is the destroyer of man's glory.”
― Jaachynma N.E. Agu, The Prince and the Pauper

“I say, therefore, that the arms with which a prince defends his state are either his own, or they are mercenaries, auxiliaries, or mixed. Mercenaries and auxiliaries are useless and dangerous; and if one holds his state based on these arms, he will stand neither firm nor safe; for they are disunited, ambitious and without discipline, unfaithful, valiant before friends, cowardly before enemies; they have neither the fear of God nor fidelity to men, and destruction is deferred only so long as the attack is; for in peace one is robbed by them, and in war by the enemy. The fact is, they have no other attraction or reason for keeping the field than a trifle of stipend, which is not sufficient to make them willing to die for you. They are ready enough to be your soldiers whilst you do not make war, but if war comes they take themselves off or run from the foe; which I should have little trouble to prove, for the ruin of Italy has been caused by nothing else than by resting all her hopes for many years on mercenaries, and although they formerly made some display and appeared valiant amongst themselves, yet when the foreigners came they showed what they were.”
― Niccolò Machiavelli

“Just as those who draw landscapes place themselves below in the plain to contemplate the nature of the mountains and the highlands, and in order to contemplate the plains, place themselves on high mountains, so to understand the nature of the peoples, one must be a prince, and to understand princes, one must be of the people”
― Niccolò Machiavelli, II principe

“Recognize that the world is a stage upon which the drama of power unfolds, and it is through the exercise of your imagination that you can devise strategies and plots to bend others to your will. The more vivid and detailed your mental picture of the life you desire, the more effectively you can wield your cunning and ruthlessness to achieve your goals. Remember, your imagination is your ultimate weapon, and it is by mastering this sovereignty that you will be able to shape the world according to your desires.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The sovereignty of imagination is the foundation upon which all great conquests are built. By acknowledging and embracing this power, you will unlock the ability to devise cunning strategies and anticipate the actions of your adversaries. So, grant yourself permission to imagine the life you desire, and begin to sow the seeds of your future empire within the fertile soil of your mind.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“As you delineate the contours of your ambition, remain vigilant to the strengths and weaknesses of those who surround you. Friends and foes alike can be woven into your tapestry, either as allies to be cultivated or as obstacles to be overcome. Like a skilled chess player, anticipate the moves of your opponents, and prepare to outmaneuver them with foresight and guile.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“Remember that the threads of your ambition must be anchored in the real world. We know from “The Discourses,” a ruler must be both a lion and a fox, relying on both strength and cunning to navigate the treacherous terrain of power. Be prepared to adapt your strategies as circumstances dictate, and never shy away from employing deception or ruthlessness when they serve your cause.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“Power, in its many forms, is an irresistible force that captivates the human mind and drives our ambitions. The desire for power is a universal trait, and as a Machiavellian dreamer, it is essential to recognize and embrace this truth. By understanding the lure of power, you can harness its potential and make it the cornerstone of your dreams.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The first step in embracing the lure of power is to identify the specific pillars of power that you seek. These can include wealth, influence, control over others, or any other aspects of power that resonate with your ambitions. Reflect on what power means to you and how it can serve your dreams. By pinpointing the precise elements of power you desire, you can better focus your efforts and strategies.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The allure of power is magnetic, drawing people and resources toward those who wield it. As you pursue your dreams, understand that power is not only a means to an end but also a force that can attract new opportunities and alliances. Embrace the magnetic nature of power and use it to your advantage as you navigate the complex web of human interactions.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The lure of power can serve as a potent motivator, driving you to push beyond your perceived limits and conquer new territories. As you dream of the life you desire, allow the enticement of power to fuel your ambition and propel you toward your goals. Recognize that the pursuit of power is an ongoing endeavor, and that the appetite for power will never be fully satiated.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“As you pursue your dreams, you must develop your skills in manipulation, learning to bend others to your will and turn adversaries into allies. Study the intricacies of human nature and use your newfound knowledge to exploit the weaknesses and desires of those around you.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“As you wield your influence and control, be prepared to make sacrifices and face the consequences of your actions. Understand that, in the pursuit of power, you may lose friends, alienate allies, and create enemies. Embrace the darker aspects of power and accept the costs that come with it.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The Machiavellian dreamer understands that the pursuit of power is akin to a game of chess, and it is through the mastery of strategy that one can achieve victory.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“Envision your life as a chessboard, with each piece representing an aspect of your dreams, resources, and potential obstacles. It is through the careful manipulation of these pieces that you can gain the upper hand in your pursuit of power. Study the board, learn the strengths and weaknesses of each piece, and plan your moves with precision and foresight.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“A skilled strategist knows when to bide their time, waiting for the opportune moment to strike or exploit a weakness in their adversaries. Learn to cultivate patience, and use it to gather intelligence, assess the shifting landscape of influence, and prepare for the moments when decisive action is required.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“One of the most potent strategies in the pursuit of power is to create divisions among your adversaries, weakening their alliances and making them more susceptible to your influence. Be attuned to the tensions and rivalries that exist within your sphere of influence, and learn how to exploit them for your own gain. By sowing discord among your rivals, you can more easily bend them to your will and consolidate your power.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The ability to adapt is critical to your survival and success. Develop a keen sense of observation, and be prepared to adjust your strategies and tactics as circumstances change. Recognize that even the best-laid plans may encounter unforeseen obstacles, and embrace the need for flexibility in the face of adversity. By remaining adaptable, you ensure that your dreams remain resilient and your pursuit of power remains unyielding.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“By acknowledging and preparing for adversity, you will forge your ambition in the fires of difficulty, ensuring that your dreams are not easily extinguished.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“A skilled dreamer conducts a thorough assessment of the landscape, identifying potential threats and challenges that could hinder their path to power. By recognizing these obstacles in advance, you will be better prepared to adapt your strategies and maintain your momentum in the face of adversity.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“In the quest for power, enemies will rise against you, and even trusted allies may reveal themselves as false friends. It is crucial to recognize the motivations and ambitions of those around you, discerning true loyalty from deceitful intentions. A Machiavellian dreamer must be prepared to sever ties when necessary, sacrificing temporary alliances for the greater good of their pursuit of power.”
― Kevin L. Michel, Machiavellian Dreams: A Manual

“The Prince didn’t know who he was or how he had got here.”
― Tanith Lee, Dark Castle, White Horse

“He was really talking to keep his courage up, because he was certain he could now see shadowy figures and red eyes glinting in the darkness.”
― Tanith Lee, Dark Castle, White Horse

“It grew very quiet and dark, and then an icy wind came rushing from nowhere, sweeping like a great cold broom through the Castle of Bone. The Prince shuddered, and pressed himself back against the wall to let it past, because he felt the wind knew he was there, and would be angry if he didn’t show it proper respect.”
― Tanith Lee, Dark Castle, White Horse

“As he ran away from the Dragon, the Prince was able to look up to see Ysome the Saffron and her lizards, and several Skrolls, skeletons, and Oggrings having gleeful hysterics on top of one of the bone palisades.”
― Tanith Lee, Dark Castle, White Horse

“The Prince got down from the chariot, and the red-haired man and the apple-haired woman each took one of his arms. This made the Prince feel very happy, he wasn’t sure why.”
― Tanith Lee, Dark Castle, White Horse