3rd most-quoted character in 12 Years a Slave (2013): in 3 of its 18 quotes
Most scenes with: Solomon Northup (2)
Scenes with Clemens
3 scenes
We need a sympathetic ear. If we have an opportunity to explain our situation...
Clemens Who in your estimation is that sympathetic ear?
The two men I journeyed with. I'm certain they're making inquires at this very moment.
Clemens I would be just as certain they are counting the money paid for delivering you to this place.
They were not kidnappers. They were artists. Fellow performers.
Clemens You know that? You know for certain who they were?
Clemens [Solomon cannot answer]
How I reckon the situation: whatever past we had... well, that's done now. The reality to come is us being transported southward. New Orleans if I were to venture. After we arrive, we'll be put to market. Beyond that... Well, once in a slave state I suppose there's only one outcome.
Robert I say we fight.
The crew is fairly small. If it were well planned, I believe they could be strong armed.
Clemens Three can't stand against a whole crew. The rest here are ****, born and bred slaves. **** ain't got the stomach for a fight, not a damn one.
Robert All I know, we get where we traveling we'll wish we'd died trying.
Clemens Survival is not about certain death, it is about keeping your head down.
Days ago I was with my family, in my home. Now you tell me all is lost. "Tell no one who I really am" if I want to survive. I don't want to survive, I want to live.
Clemens If you want to survive, do and say as little as possible. Tell no one who you really are and tell no one that you can read and write. Unless you want to be a dead ****.
Other characters in 12 Years a Slave
