Axioms of Evil

From a list of former North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il’s teachings translated into English and posted on a government website. This Reading was published in the November 2011 issue of Harper’s Magazine. View more Readings here.

If the country was glorious, the song’s voice would be high.

The reality is rigid judge.

Eyes and ears of reporters are eyes and reporters of our party.

Catching by head would be better for you to catch by small arms.

The people who complicate express themselves are not knowledgeable, but those who use simpler and easier words are the really knowledgeable.

Under the lead of a great leader, even a small country can be the homeland of great ideology of times, powerful country of ideology and political leading power, shedding its brilliant light.

Great ideology creates great times.

In socialism theory based on collectivism, the acceptance of individualism theory is equal to drinking toxicant.

The life in fight is the most noble and beautiful.

The life of a Communist begins with fight and also ends with fight.

There is no existence more important and powerful than men.

A youngster without aspiration and ideal can’t be called youngster.

If we can say loyalty is the tonic for revolution, then wild ambition is the toxicant for revolution.

The man without affection has no difference with non-fragrancy flower and leafless tree.

After all, the people who relaxedly catch up with revolutionary team are better than the person who does it in a hurry.

The power and influence are accompanied by greasiness, but the trust and love are accompanied by conscience.