I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
The Autocrat of all the Russias will resign his crown, and proclaim his subjects free republicans sooner than will our American masters voluntarily give up their slaves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the reluctance of those in power to relinquish control or privilege, even in the face of moral imperatives.
Abraham Lincoln's quote draws a stark comparison between the despotism of the Russian autocracy and the American institution of slavery. He suggests that even a tyrant would be more inclined to grant freedom than those in America who benefit from slavery, emphasizing the deep-seated resistance to giving up power and privilege. This underscores a profound moral failing in society concerning the issues of freedom and equality.
Themes
SlaveryFreedomPowerEqualityTyranny
In practice
Example use cases
A speech about civil rights and the importance of freedom in society.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
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