The 1989 essay "Line and Compromise" analyzes the nature of political action in the context of the sanctioned Human Rights Day demonstration at Škroupovo Square. The author defends the independent activists' decision to compromise with the authorities, arguing that effective politics requires a rational assessment of reality and circumstances. Drawing on thinkers like Hegel, Marx, and Havlíček, he asserts that historical reality is predicated on social consensus. The text highlights a looming societal crisis driven by a complete lack of public trust in the ruling leadership. The author advocates for systemic changes, suggesting that the Communist Party's legitimacy should be tested in free elections rather than guaranteed by constitutional privilege. Crucially, the essay challenges the opposition to transition from mere human rights advocacy to the development of a concrete political program, urging them to prepare for the intellectual and moral responsibilities of future governance.