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
It is the eternal struggle between these two principles - right and wrong. They are the two principles that have stood face to face from the beginning of time and will ever continue to struggle. It is the same spirit that says, "You work and toil and earn bread, and I'll eat it."
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the ongoing conflict between right and wrong throughout history.
Abraham Lincoln's quote highlights the enduring struggle between moral principles of right and wrong that humanity has faced since the dawn of civilization. He emphasizes how these two forces have always been in confrontation, manifesting in various ways, such as the conflict between those who work hard and those who seek to benefit without effort.
Themes
StruggleMoralityRightWrongConflict
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on ethics, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of integrity.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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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.
Abraham LincolnRead
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