I here ask pardon of all my compatriots for everything of which I have been guilty towards them. I know that, by my ill-considered and immature works, I have brought distress to many and that I have even provoked others to attack me openly and, in general, have produced displeasure in many.
Interpretation
The quote expresses a heartfelt apology and acknowledgment of one's wrongdoings that have harmed others.
In this quote, Nikolai Gogol reflects on the impact of his actions on his fellow compatriots, taking responsibility for the distress and displeasure he has caused. This introspective admission of guilt reveals a deep understanding of the consequences of one's actions and the desire for reconciliation, emphasizing the significance of accountability in relationships within society.
In practice
During a public speech, one might quote Gogol to emphasize the importance of acknowledging past mistakes.
At the end of the table, the secretary was reading the decision in some case, but in such a mournful and monotonous voice, that the condemned man himself would have fallen asleep while listening to it. The judge, no doubt, would have been the first of all to do so, had he not entered into an engrossing conversation while it was going on.
You can't imagine how stupid the whole world has grown nowadays.
Two turtle doves will show thee Where my cold ashes lie And sadly murmuring tell thee How in tears I did die
Nothing could be more pleasant than to live in solitude, enjoy the spectacle of nature, and occasionally read some book.
If you have not first pondered the entire situation of the man whom you wish to help, and if you have not brought with you instructions for him to follow henceforth in leading his life, he will not receive great good from your help.
There are certain words which are nearer and dearer to a man than any others.
Sexually progressive cultures gave us literature, philosophy, civilization and the rest, while sexually restrictive cultures gave us the Dark Ages and the Holocaust.
Freedom is an indivisible word. If we want to enjoy it, and fight for it, we must be prepared to extend it to everyone, whether they are rich or poor, whether they agree with us or not, no matter what their race or the color of their skin.
It's a travesty that people have forced someone who is gay to have to make their case that they deserve the same basic rights...
She likes to try everything, out of curiosity, but she'll be sorry if she isn't guided by her heart.
May all your expectations be frustrated, may all your plans be thwarted, may all your desires be withered into nothingness, that you may experience the powerlessness and poverty of a child and sing and dance in the love of God who is the Father, Son and Spirit.
Passion must be concealed in a society where cold reserve and indifference are the signs of good breeding.
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