“They're so broke that they've actually cut essential services. In many places, they've cut policemen, because, who the fuck needs them? Or firemen, son of a bitch, it's much more fun watching something burn down.”

“People with a grudge against the world are always dangerous. They seem to think life owes them something. I've known many an invalid who has suffered worse and been cut off from life much more . . . and they've managed to lead happy contented lives. It's what's in yourself that makes you happy or unhappy.”

“The essential difference with Builders is that they've found something to do that matters to them and are therefore so passionately engaged, they rise above the personality baggage that would otherwise hold them down. Whatever they are doing has so much meaning to them that the cause itself provides charisma and they plug into it as if it was electrical current.”

“It's going to be an interesting ride, seeing who they become in the next four years.Interesting for you, she said. You're in the stands, watching the game. I'm down on the field, taking the hits. I'm terrified something will go wrong.What can go wrong? They're smart, curious, loving kids. They've got everything going for them.”

“It's your eyes. They're ... more serious than they used to be. Like they've seen things they shouldn't have.”

“You see, gentlemen, they have something to die for. They've discovered they're a people. They're awakening.”