Slaves sing most when they are most unhappy. The songs of the slave represent the sorrows of his heart; and he is relieved by them, only as an aching heart is relieved by its tears.
Frederick DouglassRead
One by one I have seen obstacles removed, errors corrected, prejudices softened, proscriptions relinquished, and my people advancing in all the elements that go to make up the sum of the general welfare. And I remember that God reigns in eternity, and that whatever delays, whatever disappointments and discouragements may come, truth, justice, liberty and humanity will ultimately prevail.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the triumph of truth and justice over obstacles and challenges.
In this quote, Frederick Douglass reflects on the progress he has witnessed regarding the removal of barriers and the advancement of his people. He acknowledges the difficulties and setbacks they face, but ultimately expresses confidence that truth, justice, liberty, and humanity will prevail in the long run. This sentiment serves as a powerful motivator for perseverance and hope in the face of adversity.
Themes
TruthJusticeLibertyPerseveranceProgress
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about social justice, one might reference Douglass's faith in the ultimate victory of truth and justice.
More from Frederick Douglass
All quotes →We may explain success mainly by one word and that word is WORK! WORK!! WORK!!! WORK!!!!
Frederick DouglassRead
I do not think much of the good luck theory of self-made men. It is worth but little attention and has no practical value.
Frederick DouglassRead
To suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker.
Frederick DouglassRead
The Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider it purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? or is it in the temple? it is neither.
Frederick DouglassRead
Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have the exact measure of the injustice and wrong which will be imposed on them.
Frederick DouglassRead
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