How can one explain the attraction terror holds for some minds — and why for intellectuals? . . .In a totalitarian and terrorist regime, man is no longer a unique being with infinite possibilities and limitless choices but a number, a puppet, with just this difference — numbers and puppets are not susceptible to fear.
Elie WieselI come from a tradition - from the Jewish tradition, which believes in words, in language, in communication.
Elie WieselThe deeper the nostalgia and the more complete the fear, the purer, the richer the word and the secret.
Elie WieselCertain things, certain events, seem inexplicable only for a time: up to the moment when the veil is torn aside.
Elie WieselBut where was I to start? The world is so vast, I shall start with the country I knew best, my own. But my country is so very large. I had better start with my town. But my town, too, is large. I had best start with my street. No, my home. No, my family. Never mind, I shall start with myself.
Elie Wiesel