If we must die, O let us nobly die.
Claude MckayRead
Nations, like plants and human beings, grow. And if the development is thwarted they are dwarfed and overshadowed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Just like living beings, nations need proper conditions to thrive; otherwise, their potential is limited.
This quote by Claude McKay draws an analogy between nations and living organisms, suggesting that both require favorable conditions for growth and development. When these conditions are obstructed or hindered, both nations and individuals can fall short of their true potential, resembling stunted plants or overshadowed individuals. It highlights the importance of nurturing environments in enabling progress and flourishing.
Themes
GrowthDevelopmentNationsThwartedPotential
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about economic policies, you might say, 'Nations, like plants and human beings, grow. If development is thwarted, they are dwarfed and overshadowed.'
More from Claude Mckay
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It was becoming clear that, from being at the top at Holy Cross, we were at the bottom at St. Peter's. Objectively, this was very good, for it offered us a challenge and an opportunity to grow if we were ready to take it; and we surely were.
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Commerce changes entirely the fate and genius of nations, by communicating arts and opinions, circulating money, and introducing the materials of luxury; she first opens and polishes the mind, then corrupts and enervates both that and the body.
Thomas GrayRead
No society of nations, no people within a nation, no family can benefit through mutual aid unless good will exceeds ill will; unless the spirit of cooperation surpasses antagonism; unless we all see and act as though the other man's welfare determines our own welfare.
Henry Ford IiRead
The choice, however, is as clear now for nations as it was once for the individual: peace or extinction.
Lester B. PearsonRead
The crime which bankrupts men and nations is that of turning aside from one's main purpose to serve a job here and there.
Ralph Waldo EmersonRead
A basic cause of murmuring is that too many of us seem to expect that life will flow ever smoothly, featuring an unbroken chain of green lights with empty parking places just in front of our destinations!.
Neal A. MaxwellRead