How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph.Sentence)
Quote #1
In considering the requirements for the rehabilitation of Europe the physical loss of life, the visible destruction of cities, factories, mines and railroads was correctly estimated, but it has become obvious during recent months that this visible destruction was probably less serious than the dislocation of the entire fabric of European economy. (2.1)
It's the most obvious, vulgar display of power, but it is a display. Marshall makes an interesting and correct point here. He almost dismisses the physical destruction. He is in effect saying, that the true power is the economy, this nebulous invisible thing. And it's broken in Europe.
Quote #2
Under the arbitrary and destructive Nazi rule, virtually every possible enterprise was geared into the German war machine. (2.4)
The Nazis were sort of famous for misusing their power. (No, not with the Ark of the Covenant or Holy Grail.) They had guns and tanks and soldiers and whatnot. This quote is a depiction of power. The Nazis had already destroyed the economy before the war.
Quote #3
The remedy lies in breaking the vicious circle and restoring the confidence of the European people in the economic future of their own countries and of Europe as a whole. (5.1)
Oh, is that all? By saying that they should fix the European economy, he's implying that they have the power to do so. That's a pretty stunning amount of power there, and Marshall believes that they're obligated to use it.
Quote #4
Furthermore, governments, political parties or groups which seek to perpetuate human misery in order to profit therefrom politically or otherwise will encounter the opposition of the United States. (6.9)
This is something of a threat to exercise the power of the U.S. against potential enemies. This statement would be entirely hollow without the power to back it up in some way, but since the U.S. is one of two nations with that power, it means something.
Quote #5
The program should be a joint one, agreed to by a number, if not all European nations. (7.6)
Ever hear the phrase "there's strength in numbers"? So has Marshall. As much power as the U.S. has, it still can use the help of the parts of Europe it plans to assist. With this help, the plan can be put into practice.