The Chocolate War Power Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

Archie believed in always doing the smart thing. Not the thing you ached to do, not the impulsive act, but that thing that would pay off later. (4.39)

Archie's restraint gives him power. He spends lots of time thinking and planning and he doesn't act until he's fairly sure what the effects of his actions will be.

Quote #5

"I'm not giving anything more to Trinity. Not football, not running, not anything." (23.41)

The Goober is trying to get back the power that's being drained from him at Trinity. Saying "No," refusing to participate, is a form of non-violent resistance to the oppressive leadership.

Quote #6

"I'm convinced, Archie, that he's become a symbol of to those who would like to see the sale defeated. The malingerers, malcontents – they always rally around a rebel. Renault must sell the chocolates." (24.26)

Brother Leon realizes how powerful Jerry's "No" is. To a bunch of kids who've never seriously considered challenging the authority of Leon and The Vigils, it's a huge eye opener. Leon wants to force him into submission to show everybody that nobody can successfully resist at Trinity.