Dune

by Frank Herbert

"Dune" follows Paul Atreides, a young nobleman whose family becomes embroiled in a complex struggle for control of the desert planet Arrakis, the only source of the valuable spice melange. As Paul navigates political intrigue, betrayal, and his own emerging powers, he becomes a messianic figure destined to change the fate of the universe. The novel explores themes of ecology, religion, and the consequences of power.

10 curated highlights from this book

Key Insights & Memorable Quotes

Below are the most impactful passages and quotes from Dune, carefully selected to capture the essence of the book.

Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
The mystery of life isn't a problem to be solved, but a reality to be experienced.
He who controls the spice controls the universe.
The slow blade penetrates the shield.
A beginning is the time for taking the most delicate care that the balances are correct.
There is no real ending. It’s just the place where you stop the story.
The mind commands the body and it obeys. The mind orders itself and meets resistance.
To endure oneself may be the hardest task in the universe.
In the moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing.
The person who experiences greatness must have a feeling for the myth he is in.