adversarial dynamics Quotes

I don't know if tennis players feel like that but when you have a great opponent - although I didn't feel like he [ Ben Mendelsohn ] was an opponent - you just know your game is going to jack up and it's just going to raise the bar. I couldn't wait for that elevation.

In the investigation of a neurotic style of life, we must always suspect an opponent, and note who suffers most because of the patient's condition. Usually this is a member of the family.

General Montgomery is the most irritating man I ever met. I have an idea that he might irritate the Germans even more however.

I've fought guys that I like. When you're fighting a guy that you don't like, you have to be able to separate certain aspects of it.

Barack Obama seemed to think he could win over his enemies. He certainly seemed to believe too much in his own powers of persuasion. One thing's for sure - he misunderstood the nature of his adversaries.

It's always tricky to play against a player who you've never played against.

Enemies are just friends in reverse.

A bully is playing a game, one that he or she enjoys and needs. You're welcome to play this game if it makes you happy, but for most people, it will make you miserable.

We’d spent years as adversaries, two predators sharing territory and a certain, unwelcome attraction. Somehow, during all those years I spent outwardly acquiescing to his demands while making sure I held my own, I’d won his respect. I’d had werewolves love me and hate me, but I’d never had one respect me before. Not even Samuel. Adam respected me enough to act on my suspicions. It meant a lot.

Nemeses aren't born. They are made.

You might say that the very best that can happen is to have energetic opponents.

When we classify an issue as a 'shield issue' it is usually because we feel that someone else occupies the high ground on that issue. We feel we can't win on that issue and so we adopt a defensive posture.

There is no disgrace in an enemy suffering ill at an enemy's hand, when you hate mutually.

I'm not making an enemy; I'm keepin' one.

I was told once that the most important part of a fight is making sure your opponent looks worse than you do when you’re through.

The enemy properly goaded and guided in his reaction will be your major strength.

It's great to have an enemy. Sharpens your senses.

Enemies are, to me, as important as friends in my life, and when they die I mourn their passing.