“Let us have a dagger between our teeth, a bomb in our hands, and an infinite scorn in our hearts.”
- July 29, 1883 – April 28, 1945
- Italian
- Politician, Journalist, Dictator, Prime Minister of Italy, Founder of Fascism
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Quote
“Let us have a dagger between our teeth, a bomb in our hands, and an infinite scorn in our hearts.”
Explanation
This quote epitomizes Mussolini’s militant, revolutionary ethos, calling for violence, aggression, and contempt as defining traits of the fascist spirit. The imagery of a “dagger between our teeth” and a “bomb in our hands” evokes a romanticized vision of relentless combat and destruction, while “infinite scorn” captures the ideological hatred directed toward perceived enemies—be they liberals, socialists, pacifists, or foreigners. It reflects fascism’s glorification of action over thought, violence over compromise, and emotion over reason.
The historical context of this quote can be traced back to Mussolini’s early ties with Futurism and radical nationalism, both of which celebrated war, speed, youth, and violence as purifying and regenerative forces. In the chaotic aftermath of World War I, Italy was rife with political instability, and fascist squads used terror and intimidation to seize control. This quote channels that paramilitary mindset, portraying the fascist as a heroic figure who is unbound by morality, restraint, or negotiation.
In the modern world, this quote is a stark warning about the seduction of political violence. While such language might appeal to those disillusioned with systems of power or yearning for radical change, it also legitimizes extremism, dehumanizes opponents, and dismantles civil discourse. Mussolini’s words highlight how authoritarian movements often thrive on rage, fear, and spectacle, making it essential to confront such rhetoric with values rooted in reason, dialogue, and human dignity.
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