Fox’s new hit series "Gotham" is thrilling, violent, and pure genius. If you’re familiar with the "Batman" movies, or just have a general knowledge of the characters, the series is easy to follow and highly addicting. One of the star villains in the series is Oswald Cobblepot, also known as ‘The Penguin,’ and is brilliantly played by actor Robin Lord Taylor. Some even say that Taylor was born to play the part because he plays it so unbelievably well. Every line he speaks is said with poise, elegance, and a hint of tactfulness - ultimately making him the number one villain on the show. Here are his top three quotes that show why Penguin is truly a legend.
1. “And walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light.”
Penguin said this thought-provoking quote, originally stated by the infamous Helen Keller, to Detective James Gordon after he refused his help on an important case. Although Penguin is known as one of the bad guys, and Gordon is a police officer, the two have a unique friendship because Gordon defied the boss’s orders and spared Penguin his life after being ordered to kill him. The two are not necessarily friends in the grand scheme of things, but that doesn’t stop Penguin from offering the detective a helpful hand on a case where his knowledge can be particularly beneficial. The lesson learned is that sometimes in life, it’s best to have a friend by your side.
2. “When you know what a man loves, you know what can kill him.”
This quote may be grim to some, but to others, it’s literary genius. This is the line that Penguin says to Frankie Carbone, a fellow villain and rival. Penguin ultimately ends up taking Carbone’s life, but not until after exchanging some wise words. Carbone loved money, and Penguin had the nerve to tell him that that he loved it more than power and respect, implying that he was a cheapskate. The moral of the story is that Penguin was correct and was able to use this to his advantage, showing that sometimes your greatest love can also become your greatest weakness.
3. “Foolish arrogance led me astray. But I learned my lessons. I’ll be back, stronger and smarter than ever.”
We all make mistakes. That's what makes us human, right? But the one thing that Penguin does with his mistakes is he turn them into lessons. Right before Detective James Gordon spared Penguin his life and pretended to kill him, he told him to never ever return to Gotham again. But how could he not? I mean, really. We knew he would be back, it was just a matter of time, or for lack of a better phrase - just one episode. Although Penguin defied orders from the man who saved his life, he came back more determined than ever to take over Gotham. At the end of the day though, he isn't all that bad. He just couldn't resist returning to a city that he knows and loves, and can you really blame him? Gotham is his true calling.
