House of the Dragon has very wise and strong characters. The quotes and writing are truly impeccable. One of those characters who had some brilliant quotes and dialogue that really exposed his personality is Lord Corlys Velaryon. He is wise, strong, proud and determined to taste greatness. His lust for power and legacy is almost as much as Daemon, the only difference being Lord Corlys’ subtlety. So let’s explore some of his best quotes and what they say about him.
1. To escape a storm, you can either sail through it or go around it. But you must never wait for his coming.
At the King’s Little Council, Lord Corlys immediately distinguished himself from the rest. He was vocal, headstrong, and had a caring attitude. Lord Corlys realized threat that the triarchy and Craghas Drahar laid in the Stepstones long before King Viserys. When he realized the king’s reluctance to act, he went ahead and disobeyed Viserys. Moreover, this dialogue stands out as one of the best in the series.
2. We are the second sons of the kingdom, Daemon. Our value is not given, it must be done.
Corlys Velaryon is proud to be a self-made man responsible for everything Driftmark is today. And this quote perfectly sums up his determination and perseverance. In this way he made an alliance with a man who looks a lot like him, Demon Prince Targaryen. Together they even took on the Stepstones and emerged victorious.
3. When I ascended the throne of Driftwood, I knew what I wanted. So I went out and grabbed it.
Lord Corlys Velaryon is one of my favorite characters on the show. His personality is primed to be a leader, even a king. This quote once again shows how strong-willed this man is. He is definitely one of the most underrated characters on the show. There aren’t many others who can do it all.
4. Unlike all the other lords in the realm, I can say that I built the high seat of my house with the strength of my own back.
Lord Corlys Velaryon is a warrior, a sailor, a tactician and a very intelligent man. Each of his moves is a strategic move towards his goal of gaining more power. It has proven itself again and again. Plus, he knew exactly what to say when he approached Daemon asking for his help. After all, convincing a man as rebellious and stubborn as Daemon Targaryen is not easy.
5. What is this short mortal life, if not the continuation of the legacy
This unique dialogue explains almost all the events of Game of Thrones and House of the Dragon. This explains why some characters go so far. Lord Corlys says it perfectly. Even when accused of being a selfish, power-hungry and prideful man, he still manages to deliver such poetic lines.
6. History does not remember blood. He remembers names.
He chooses to make Lucerys Velaryon his heiress instead of Baela despite Lucerys not being a true Velaryon. Although Princess Rhaenys points this out and wants Driftmark to pass on their daughters’ line, Lord Corlys refuses. This dialogue recalls the saying that history is written by the victors.
7. House Velaryon originated in the days of ancient Valyria. It is older than House Targaryen according to certain writings.
There is no other quote that better shows the prideful nature of Lord Corlys. There aren’t many who could try to undermine House Targaryen so casually. But as we have already seen, Lord Corlys does what he wants. He went against King Viserys and started the battle at the Stepstones. The man is not afraid of war.
8. We must plan our destinies. We have been ignored too often.
If there is one character who could inspire and motivate you not only with words but also with actions, it is Lord Corlys Velaryon. His thirst for power and glory costs him his family, and yet he keeps pushing forward, weathering one storm after another.