When the wind is right, a faint odor of kerosene is exhaled from Senator McCarthy.
Attribution disputed; shown as originally published.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote suggests that Senator McCarthy had a distinct, identifiable presence, likened to a faint smell of kerosene that becomes noticeable under certain conditions.
- In plain terms
- McCarthy had a telltale sign that revealed him when the conditions were right.
- What can you take from it?
- People often leave subtle traces that reveal their true nature.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What subtle signs reveal a person's character?
- How do we perceive hidden traits in others?
Another view
The metaphor is vague and relies on subjective sensory interpretation.
More from Joseph McCarthy
Thank God somebody's doing it.
Permalink to quote #7 The junior senator from Wisconsin, by his reckless charges, has so preyed upon the fears and hatreds and prejudices of the American people that he has started …
Permalink to quote #6 Let us not assassinate this lad further, senator. You've done enough. Have you no sense of decency, sir? At long last, have you left no sense of decency?
Permalink to quote #5
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