Without a global revolution in the sphere of human consciousness a more humane society will not emerge.
Vaclav HavelRead
Frank Zappa was one of the gods of the Czech underground, I thought of him as a friend. Whenever I feel like escaping from the world of the Presidency, I think of him.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the deep connection and inspiration found in friendships, even in times of isolation.
Vaclav Havel expresses his admiration for Frank Zappa, portraying him as a symbol of freedom and escape from the burdens of leadership. The reference to Zappa highlights the importance of friendships that provide support and a sense of belonging, especially in challenging roles such as the presidency.
Themes
FriendshipInspirationFreedomLeadershipSupport
In practice
Example use cases
Using the quote in a speech about the importance of supportive friendships in leadership roles.
More from Vaclav Havel
All quotes →Ownership is not a vice, not something to be ashamed of, but rather a commitment, and an instrument by which the general good can be served.
Vaclav HavelRead
In my opinion, theater shouldn't give advice to citizens.
Vaclav HavelRead
Sometimes I wonder if suicides aren't in fact sad guardians of the meaning of life.
Vaclav HavelRead
The exercise of power is determined by thousands of interactions between the world of the powerful and that of the powerless, all the more so because these worlds are never divided by a sharp line: everyone has a small part of himself in both.
Vaclav HavelRead
Human rights, human freedoms... and human dignity have their deepest roots somewhere outside the perceptible world... while the state is a human creation, human beings are the creation of God.
Vaclav HavelRead
Similar quotes
We must meet our duty and convince the world that we are just friends and brave enemies.
Thomas JeffersonRead
Come, let us pity those who are better off than we are. Come, my friend, and remember that the rich have butlers and no friends, And we have friends and no butlers. (excerpt from 'The Garrett')
Ezra PoundRead
Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to min?
Robert BurnsRead
I do not want a friend who smiles when I smile, who weeps when I weep; for my shadow in the pool can do better than that.
ConfuciusRead
We are all good friends. Friendship is what endures. Shared ideals, respect for the whole character of a human being.
E. L. DoctorowRead
To absent friends, lost loves, old gods, and the season of mists; and may each and every one of us always give the devil his due.
Neil GaimanRead