Loyalty's a dangerous foundation. Tends to wash away in a storm. Self interest stands in any weather

Loyalty's a dangerous foundation. Tends to wash away in a storm. Self interest stands in any weather

In the world of Joe Abercrombie's novels, loyalty is a concept that is constantly tested and often found lacking. The quote "Loyalty's a dangerous foundation. Tends to wash away in a storm. Self-interest stands in any weather" perfectly encapsulates the themes of betrayal, power struggles, and moral ambiguity that are prevalent throughout Abercrombie's works.

One of the most prominent examples of this theme can be seen in Abercrombie's First Law trilogy, where characters are constantly forced to choose between their loyalty to their friends and allies, and their own self-interest. In a world where power is constantly shifting and alliances are constantly changing, loyalty can be a dangerous thing to rely on. Characters like Logen Ninefingers, Glokta, and Jezal dan Luthar are all forced to confront the limits of their loyalty and the consequences of putting their trust in others.

Abercrombie's characters are complex and morally ambiguous, often making decisions that prioritize their own self-interest over the well-being of others. This is especially true in his standalone novels like Best Served Cold and The Heroes, where characters are driven by revenge, ambition, and a desire for power. Loyalty is often sacrificed in the pursuit of these goals, leading to betrayal and conflict among friends and allies.