Margaret Thatcher 1925 – 2013
You may have noticed in this week’s world news that Margaret Thatcher died on 8 April. She was the UK’s first and (so far) only female Prime Minister. She held that position between 1979 and 1990.
There has been a lot of media coverage both positive and negative about her legacy. No matter what people think of her, there is no doubt that she was a formidable woman and politician. After all, she was not called the ‘Iron Lady‘ for nothing.
This blog is not the place to discuss political views. Instead, what I wanted to share with you here is some of the quotes by Margaret Thatcher. In her lifetime she gave many speeches and interviews from which her quotes are taken.
I’ve selected 8 of my favourite quotes by Margaret Thatcher. Some of the quotes have a clever play on words which really shows the subtlety of the English Language. I’ve highlighted those examples. I’d love to know what you think of them.
1. “To those waiting with bated breath* for that favourite media catchphrase, the U-turn, I have only this to say, ‘You turn if you want; the lady’s not for turning.” – This has been shown a lot in the media this week. It’s a great play on words, eg, U-Turn and You turn.
2. “Plan your work for today and every day, then work your plan” – Another lovely play on words eg plan your work, work your plan.
3. “Don’t follow the crowd, let the crowd follow you.”
4. “I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end.”
Taken from the New Yorker Magazine
5. “I love argument. I love debate. I don’t expect anyone just to sit there and agree with me – that’s not their job.”
6. “In politics, If you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman.”
7. 
8. “To wear your heart on your sleeve* isn’t a very good plan; you should wear it inside, where it functions best.”
Love her or hate her, you could not ignore her, and some of the quotes by Margaret Thatcher will always be part of the clever use of the English Language.
Do you know any other quotes by Margaret Thatcher? Please share them here.
Ciao for now.
Shanthi
*Glossary:
With bated breath – waiting excitedly for something to happen
To wear your heart on your sleeve – to show your emotions openly
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