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Holding back is so close to stealing.
Neil Young
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Withholding one's true feelings or potential is akin to taking away opportunities from others.

This quote by Neil Young suggests that not expressing oneself or holding back one's talents and ideas is morally similar to stealing. It emphasizes the importance of being open and authentic, as failing to do so can prevent other people from benefiting from the true value of our contributions, whether they be emotional, artistic, or intellectual.

Themes

AuthenticitySelf-ExpressionOpportunityPotentialMorality

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech, to encourage people to pursue their passions.

More from Neil Young

I don't look at a knife the way I used to. I'm more aware of what it is. I think twice. This is a key finger. It's in every chord.
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I don't force it. If you don't have an idea and you don't hear anything going over and over in your head, don't sit down and try to write a song. You know, go mow the lawn...My songs speak for themselves.
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In a Ramada Inn near the grapevine, they stop to rest for the night. Traveling down south, looking for good times. Visiting old friends feels right.
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Link Wray... He was the beginning of Grunge, way before anybody you know.
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I dreamed I saw the silver spaceships flying in the yellow haze of the sun. There were children crying and colors flying all around the chosen ones.
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It's better to burn out, than to fade away.
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