Michael

“As it is articulated in this book, German foreign policy makers regarded armament exports as one of the principal elements of a strategy for successful economic–political penetration of the countries where German strategic interests were at stake. For this purpose, the German military mission in general and Goltz Pasha in particular were touchstones of Bismarck’s well-planned expansionist strategy towards the Ottoman Empire.”
― Naci Yorulmaz, Arming the Sultan: German Arms Trade and Personal Diplomacy in the Ottoman Empire

“Get this straight, kids,” the prophet said. “If you think you're anything but dirt, then you're in for a surprise. Ignore everything your principal said. It doesn't matter what you do. You're still going to die. You're all sinners and scum of the earth. You've spent the last eighteen years of your life fucking, cussing, and spiting at the Lord. Well, kids, when the end comes, you're going to be wishing your mother aborted you with a coat hanger and ended your miserable existence before it ever began.”
― Autumn Christian, The Crooked God Machine

“Why does this matter to you?” “Because I want to know you,” I said. “You’ve never known anyone in your life.” “I want to try,” I said.”
― Autumn Christian, The Crooked God Machine

“When we saw each other across the clearing, our meeting spot, we walked toward each other with hesitant, lamb steps. We felt each other’s heads for the heat of the wire spider. “You’re still here,” I whispered, when I felt nothing but her cool scalp. “Still here,” she said.”
― Autumn Christian, The Crooked God Machine