But I despised men who accepted their fate. I shaped mine twenty times and had it broken twenty times in my hands.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a strong rejection of passivity in the face of adversity, advocating for active resistance and shaping one's own destiny.
In this quote, Dorothy Dunnett asserts the importance of taking control of one's life and not simply accepting the circumstances that come one's way. She highlights her determination to mold her own fate, even if it means facing repeated failures. This resilience reflects a courageous spirit that refuses to succumb to resignation, instead embracing the challenges of actively shaping one’s future despite the risks involved.
In practice
Using this quote at a motivational seminar focused on personal development.
For an hour, blended with all she could offer, something noble had been created which had nothing to do with the physical world. And from the turn of his throat, the warmth of his hair, the strong, slender sinews of his hands, something further; which had. Though she combed the earth and searched through the smoke of the galaxies there was no being she wanted but this, who was not and should not be for Philippa Somerville.
You’re not leaving me here alone,” I say. Because if he dies, I’ll never go home, not really. I’ll spend the rest of my life in this arena, trying to think my way out.
I had to endure the worst time of all in terms of racial discrimination in Hollywood when i first started out. It was inconcievable to American directors and producers that a Mexican woman could have a lead role.
Those who put their lives on the line overseas are undoubtedly American heroes, but it's time for us to remember that those who serve in civilian life also embody the American spirit and are worthy of our praise as well.
I'm not the sort to back away from a fight. I don't believe in shrinking from anything. It's not my speed; I'm a guy who meets adversities head on.
The number one taboo for boys is to be feminine, so for someone to not only override their internal directive but society's directive is mind-boggling and heroic. It's courageous.
If this long island story of ours is to end at last, let it end only when each one of us lies, choking in his own blood upon the ground.
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