Our government declared that it is conducting some kind of great reforms. In reality, no real reforms were begun and no one at any point has declared a coherent programme.
Aleksandr SolzhenitsynWhat would things been like [in Russia] if during periods of mass arrests people had not simply sat there, paling with terror at every bang on the downstairs door and at every step on the staircase, but understood they had nothing to lose and had boldly set up in the downstairs hall an ambush of half a dozen people?
Aleksandr SolzhenitsynShould one point out that from ancient times decline in courage has been considered the beginning of the end?
Aleksandr SolzhenitsynThe price of cowardice will only be evil. We shall reap courage and victory only when we dare to make sacrifices.
Aleksandr SolzhenitsynShall I describe the happiness it gave me to go into the classroom and pick up the chalk? ... It seemed to me the supreme, heartbreaking happiness to enter a classroom carrying a register as that bell rang, and start a lesson with the mysterious air of one about to unfold wonders.
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn