Original artwork, not a still
A Lannister always pays his debts.
— Game of Thrones · 2011
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It began as a sales pitch to a sellsword and became the Lannisters' real motto, far better known than the official "Hear me roar". It cuts both ways: Lannisters pay what they owe in gold, and in blood. That double edge is why it is quoted with a grin when someone settles a score, and why Bronn, the Iron Bank and a good few enemies end up cashing the same promise.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Game of ThronesShow the scene
Tyrion says a version of this in the fifth episode of season one, "The Wolf and the Lion" (15 May 2011). Catelyn Stark has seized him at the Inn at the Crossroads and is hauling him to the Vale of Arryn, loudly claiming they are riding for Winterfell so no one will guess. Now on the Eastern Road, with the sellsword Bronn riding along, Tyrion congratulates her on the trick and points out that his father Tywin will pay a handsome reward for his safe return. Bronn's ears prick up. The line itself, in the show, is "Everyone knows a Lannister always pays his debts."
Sources (2)
- Game of Thrones wiki: The Wolf and the LionSynopsis, In the Vale of Arryn; QuotesReference checked
- Game of Thrones wiki: House LannisterLead and Behind the scenesReference checked
Context reviewed
