In order to get inside their skin, I have to identify with them. That includes even the ones who are complete bastards, nasty, twisted, deeply flawed human beings with serious psychological problems. Even them. When I get inside their skin and look out through their eyes, I have to feel a certain - if not sympathy, certainly empathy for them. I have to try to perceive the world as they do, and that creates a certain amount of affection.
George R. R. MartinThe letter . . . What did your lords make of it, I wonder?โ Stannis snorted. โCeltigar pronounced it admirable. If I showed him the contents of my privy, he would declare that admirable as well.
George R. R. MartinAll men lie when they are afraid. Some tell many lies, some but a few. Some have only one great lie they tell so often that they almost come to believe it... though some small part of them will always know that it is still a lie, and that will show upon their faces. (a servant in the House of Black and White)
George R. R. Martin