House of Cards Quotes

Context

This line was spoken by Frank Underwood, played by Kevin Spacey, in the TV show House of Cards (2013—).

In House of Cards, the newly elected President Frank Underwood doesn't treat people like human beings, but like Jenga blocks, puzzle pieces, or whatever board game metaphor catches your fancy here. However, it's not easy to play the game when the players don't respect you. It's like when you were an elementary school kid forced to watch on the sidelines while your older siblings played pickup basketball and had a good time.

And this is Frank Underwood's situation in Season 3 of House of Cards . He's president, but his approval rating is in the toilet, and both Republicans and Democrats don't like his new jobs bill, America Works. Also, it's a lot harder to scheme as the leader of the free world with eyes, media, and Secret Service everywhere.

However, Underwood is determined to leave a legacy in the Oval Office and run for president in 2016, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to stay on top. That's the Frank we know. Get ready for betrayals, backstabbing, and even a touch of propaganda in Season 3.

Where you've heard it

Other than a Frank Underwood monologue, you've maybe heard this from an over eager student government representative trying to get votes from the various school cliques. Some people take things way too seriously.

Additional Notable References:

• NME included this quote in a list of the most "sinister" Frank Underwood lines. Don't forget to twirl your mustache while reading this article.
• If you're a Kevin Spacey fan, this quiz about quotes from his characters in House of Cards and American Beauty might be worth a try.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

Like most Frank Underwood quotes, this line comes across wrong if you're not a plotting, Machiavellian politician.