Corridors of Power 🏛️
Navigate the labyrinthine hallways where decisions shaping the destiny of nations are made. “Corridors of power” refers to the highest echelons of governmental bureaucracy, a term coined by C. P. Snow in his 1956 novel Homecomings and later spotlighted as the title of his 1964 novel, Corridors of Power. Though this expression has slid out of regular use, it retains a gravitas that commands our fascination.
Synonyms and Related Terms:
- Halls of Power: Another evocative term pointing to the centers of influence in politics.
- Pecking Order: Understanding the hierarchy within these powerful corridors.
- Power Brokers: Those who hold the real sway.
- The Inner Circle: The select few who wield supreme control.
Similar Sayings:
- Seat of Power: Where powerful decisions are made.
- Behind Closed Doors: Secretive or exclusive meetings amongst influential figures.
- The Gravy Train: Positions of power that often translate into perks and benefits.
Powerful Proverbs:
- “With great power comes great responsibility.” – Voltaire
- “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” - Lord Acton
Humorous Power Quotes:
- “Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren’t.” – Margaret Thatcher
- “The best minds are not in government. If any were, business would steal them away.” – Ronald Reagan
Recommended Media:
- Books:
- Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin: Explore President Lincoln’s corridors of power.
- The Power Broker by Robert Caro: Unearth the labyrinthine world of Robert Moses.
- Songs:
- Everybody Wants to Rule the World by Tears for Fears: An anthemic reflection on power and its allure.
- Movies:
- All the President’s Men: Navigate the foggy hallways of power during the Watergate scandal.
- The Ides of March: A modern take on the manipulative power plays in politics.
- Poetry:
- Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley: A poignant look at the fleeting nature of power.
Quizzes for Enthusiasts 🔎
### Which author coined the term "corridors of power"?
- [x] C. P. Snow
- [ ] William Safire
- [ ] Doris Kearns Goodwin
- [ ] Robert Caro
> **Explanation:** The term "corridors of power" was coined by C. P. Snow and became popular through its usage in his literature.
### Which song relates to the concept of power?
- [x] Everybody Wants to Rule the World
- [ ] Stuck in the Middle With You
- [ ] Happy Together
- [ ] House of the Rising Sun
> **Explanation:** "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" by Tears for Fears reflects on the universal allure of power—a very fitting tune!
### True or False: "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely" is a proverb.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** This statement by Lord Acton has become proverbial, expressing the corrupting nature of power.
### What does "behind closed doors" refer to in the context of power?
- [x] Secretive or exclusive meetings
- [ ] Changing rooms
- [ ] Public hearings
- [ ] Doors to the lavatory
> **Explanation:** "Behind closed doors" refers to confidential meetings held by influential figures, illustrative of secretive power dynamics.
### Which book discusses President Lincoln’s inner circle?
- [ ] The Power Broker
- [x] Team of Rivals
- [ ] All the President’s Men
- [ ] The Ides of March
> **Explanation:** *Team of Rivals* by Doris Kearns Goodwin intricately details Lincoln’s political maneuverings within his corridors of power.
Inspirational Thought: As you traverse your own corridors of life, remember: “The exercise of true power is never about how many notes we can hit, but how many souls we can truly inspire.”
Happy Exploring!
~ E. Lection Structures
