‘The Godfather‘ is a masterful tale of power, family, and crime. It chronicles the activities of the Corleone family, a prominent Italian-American mafia clan led by Don Vito Corleone. Let’s take a look at some of them notable quotes from this novel.
Strictly business
It’s not personal, Sonny. It’s strictly business.
The quote was spoken by Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather,’ and it reflects a central theme of the novel: the separation of personal emotions from the cold, calculated decisions made in the world of organized crime.
In this context, Michael is trying to rationalize his decision to take a more ruthless and calculated approach to the family’s criminal activities. By emphasizing that their actions are based on business interests rather than personal feelings, Michael is asserting that they must prioritize the success and survival of the family above individual sentiments.
This quote encapsulates the moral ambiguity and pragmatic mindset that characterizes Michael’s transformation from a reluctant outsider to a shrewd and strategic leader within the Corleone family. It also underscores the harsh realities of the criminal underworld, where sentimentality and personal attachments can be liabilities in the pursuit of power and influence.
I don’t like violence, Tom. I’m a businessman. Blood is a big expense
In the quote, Sollozzo expresses his preference for conducting business through negotiation and manipulation rather than resorting to violent methods. He identifies himself primarily as a businessman, implying that his primary objective is to make profitable deals rather than engage in physical conflict.
The phrase “Blood is a big expense” is a metaphorical way of saying that violence can be costly, both in terms of human lives and the potential repercussions it can have on a criminal enterprise. Sollozzo highlights the pragmatic aspect of organized crime, where minimizing conflict and maintaining stability can be more profitable in the long run.
This statement also serves to highlight the contrast between Sollozzo’s approach and that of some other characters in the story of ‘The Godfather,’ particularly the Corleone family, who are not averse to using violence when they deem it necessary to protect their interests. Sollozzo’s preference for a more “businesslike” approach is one of the factors that leads to the conflict between him and the Corleones in the story.
Immense power
I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.
The iconic line “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse,” spoken by Don Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather,’ signifies a veiled threat, emphasizing the immense power and influence he wields.
In essence, Vito is suggesting that he will present someone with a proposition or demand that they will be compelled to accept, not out of choice, but due to the implicit consequences of refusal. This offer is typically backed by the Corleone family’s substantial resources, connections, and potential for retribution, making it virtually impossible for the recipient to reject.
It’s a declaration of the immense coercive power at Vito’s disposal, demonstrating the formidable authority he exerts within the world of organized crime. This line has become an enduring symbol of the Corleone family’s dominance and influence.
The lawyer with the briefcase can steal more money than the man with the gun
In this quote, Don Vito Corleone is making a pointed observation about the different ways in which power and wealth can be wielded.
When he says, “The lawyer with the briefcase can steal more money than the man with the gun,” Don Corleone highlights the effectiveness of using legal and bureaucratic means to accumulate wealth. He’s suggesting that individuals who possess knowledge of the legal system and financial expertise can exploit it to amass significant wealth, often more effectively than those who rely on brute force or criminal methods.
This quote reflects Don Corleone’s understanding of the complexities and nuances of power dynamics, both within the world of organized crime and in broader society. It also underscores the idea that corruption and manipulation can occur through legitimate channels, demonstrating the blurred lines between legality and criminality in certain contexts.
Family
A man who doesn’t spend time with his family can never be a real man.
This quote spoken by Don Vito Corleone in ‘The Godfather‘ conveys the importance of familial bonds and responsibilities in defining one’s masculinity and integrity.
In this context, Vito is emphasizing the idea that a true man prioritizes and cherishes his family. Neglecting one’s family in pursuit of personal interests or other pursuits is seen as a failure of character. It suggests that a man’s worth is measured not only by his achievements in the outside world but also by his devotion and commitment to those he holds dear.
Vito’s words reflect the traditional values of loyalty, protection, and support that are central to the Corleone family’s ethos. It also underscores the theme of family as the bedrock of the Corleone empire and the source of its strength. This sentiment is a recurring theme throughout the novel, illustrating the complex interplay between love, duty, and power within the world of organized crime.
I have a sentimental weakness for my children, and I spoil them, as you can see. They talk when they should listen.
In this quote, Don Vito Corleone is acknowledging that he has a soft spot for his children, which makes him inclined to indulge and pamper them. He admits to a “sentimental weakness,” suggesting that he allows his emotions, particularly his love for his children, to influence his actions.
When he says, “They talk when they should listen,” Don Corleone is highlighting a common trait among his children. They are sometimes too eager to express their own opinions or desires, even in situations where it would be wiser to remain quiet and heed the advice or instructions of their father.
This statement offers insight into Don Corleone’s character. It shows his deep love for his children but also indicates that he recognizes their flaws and impulsive tendencies. It underscores the delicate balance he must maintain between being a loving father and a powerful leader within the family’s criminal empire. Don Corleone’s words reflect the complex dynamics of family, authority, and power that are central themes in the book.
Don’t ever take sides with anyone against the Family again. Ever.
In this quote, Michael Corleone is delivering a stern warning to someone who has acted against the interests of the Corleone family. He is emphasizing the absolute loyalty and allegiance that one must have towards the family above all else.
When Michael says, “Don’t ever take sides with anyone against the Family again. Ever,” he is making it clear that betraying or opposing the family is an unforgivable offense. He is asserting the paramount importance of family loyalty in their world of organized crime.
This statement reflects the uncompromising nature of Michael’s character as he steps into a leadership role within the Corleone family. It also underscores the central theme of family loyalty and the lengths to which the Corleones will go to protect their interests and maintain their power. This quote serves as a powerful reminder of the strict code of conduct that governs the Corleone family’s operations.
I never wanted this for you. I work my whole life, I don’t apologize, to take care of my family. And I refused to be a fool, dancing on the string held by all those bigshots. I don’t apologize, that’s my life.
In this quote, Don Vito Corleone is expressing his deep sense of responsibility and dedication to his family. He is conveying his unwavering commitment to providing for and protecting his loved ones.
When Don Corleone says, “I work my whole life, I don’t apologize, to take care of my family,” he is emphasizing the sacrifices he has made and the lengths he has gone to ensure the well-being and prosperity of his family. This demonstrates his strong sense of duty as the patriarch of the Corleone family.
He goes on to explain that he has chosen not to be manipulated or controlled by powerful individuals (“bigshots”). Don Corleone is asserting his independence and refusing to be a mere pawn in the schemes of others. This reflects his pride and self-determination in the face of external pressures.
Ultimately, Don Corleone’s words encapsulate his values and the principles that have guided his life. He is unapologetic about the choices he has made in order to safeguard his family’s future, even if it means navigating the dangerous world of organized crime. This sentiment is central to his character and is a recurring theme in ‘The Godfather.’
Friends and Enemies
Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.
This quote, attributed to Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather,’ suggests a strategic approach to dealing with both allies and adversaries. By advising to keep friends close, Michael implies that it’s important to maintain strong and trustworthy relationships with those who support you.
This fosters loyalty and mutual benefit. However, the more intriguing part of the quote is the instruction to keep enemies closer. This means that it’s crucial to closely monitor and understand your adversaries to anticipate their moves and intentions.
This strategy is often employed in situations where there may be hidden agendas or potential threats. It’s a way of maintaining a watchful eye on those who might pose a danger, thereby gaining an edge in negotiations or conflicts.
In the context of organized crime depicted in ‘The Godfather,’ this advice encapsulates the calculated and strategic mindset required to navigate the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld. It reflects the pragmatic approach that characters like Michael Corleone must adopt to ensure their survival and success in a dangerous environment.
A friend should always underestimate your virtues and an enemy overestimate your faults.
In this quote attributed to Don Vito Corleone, he is offering astute advice on how to handle both friends and enemies.
When Don Corleone says, “A friend should always underestimate your virtues,” he is suggesting that it’s wise for your friends to not be overly impressed by your positive qualities. This is because overestimating someone’s virtues can lead to unrealistic expectations, potential disappointment, or even jealousy.
On the other hand, when he advises, “an enemy overestimates your faults,” he’s proposing that it’s advantageous for your enemies to believe that you have more weaknesses or flaws than you actually do. This can potentially lead them to underestimate your capabilities and make strategic errors in their judgments.
Overall, this advice reflects Don Corleone’s shrewd understanding of human nature and the dynamics of power and influence. It underscores the importance of managing perceptions to one’s advantage, a crucial aspect in the complex world of organized crime depicted in the book.
Women
Women and children can afford to be careless, but not men.
In this quote, Don Vito Corleone is imparting a distinct perspective on responsibility and vulnerability.
With this quote, Don Corleone is suggesting that women and children may have the luxury of being less cautious or less guarded in certain situations. This is because they often rely on the protection and support of the men in their lives.
On the other hand, men are expected to be more vigilant and responsible, as they often bear the primary burden of providing and ensuring the safety of their families. They must navigate a world where they may face greater risks and challenges, and therefore, they cannot afford to be as carefree or impulsive.
This quote reflects Don Corleone’s traditional, patriarchal outlook, which aligns with the societal norms and gender roles of his time. It also underscores the weight of duty and the expectations placed on men, particularly in the context of the organized crime world depicted in ‘The Godfather.’
In Sicily, women are more dangerous than shotguns.
Calo’s statement in the quote above conveys the idea that the influence and power of women in Sicilian culture can be even more formidable than physical weapons.
This statement reflects a cultural understanding that women in Sicily may possess a significant level of influence and authority, particularly within the family structure. It implies that they can be skilled at navigating social dynamics and exerting influence in subtle yet impactful ways.
The comparison to shotguns, which are powerful and potentially deadly weapons, underscores the idea that underestimating the impact of women in Sicilian society can be a serious mistake. It suggests that their abilities to shape events and outcomes can be equally potent, if not more so, than the use of force.
Overall, Calo’s statement sheds light on the complex dynamics and power structures within Sicilian culture, particularly in relation to the roles and influence of women.
