Blank paper speech bubbles hang by fine threads from crossed wooden bars against a muted plum background.

Original artwork, not a still

The Friends of Voltaire · 1906

Evelyn Beatrice Hall

I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.

Behind the line

What it means

Our interpretation.

The speaker separates disagreement from protection: the words may be objectionable, yet the right to speak them deserves a fierce defence. It expresses a principle of free expression that requires tolerating views one rejects, treating that tolerance as worth even the ultimate personal cost.

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