Find quotes from this novel, with commentary from Shmoop. Pick a theme below to begin.
Youth Quotes
Ender spread his hands over the child-size keyboard near the edge of the desk and wondered what it would feel like to have hands as large as a grown-up's. They must feel so big and awkward, thick s...
Manipulation Quotes
"Not a joke, a game. I can make you guys believe anything. I can make you dance around like puppets." (2.64)
Warfare Quotes
I have to win this now, and for all time, or I’ll fight it ever day and it will get worse and worse. (1.78)
Isolation Quotes
“Too willing to submerge himself in someone else’s will. […] So what do we do? Surround him with enemies all the time?” (1.4-6)
Competition Quotes
“You did better. They think you're better. But I don't want a better little brother, Ender. I don't want a Third.” (2.45)
Community Quotes
“Ender, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I know how it feels, I’m sorry, I’m your brother, I love you.” (2.76)
Friendship Quotes
Not enemies, not friends, but brothers – able to live in the same house. (1.16)
Strength and Skill Quotes
He always knew the answer, even when she thought he wasn’t paying attention. (1.50)
Identity Quotes
Ender leaned his head against the wall of the corridor and cried until the bus came. I am just like Peter. Take my monitor away, and I am just like Peter. (1.82)
Freedom and Confinement Quotes
“Human beings are free except when humanity needs them.” (4.81)