Perhaps our originality manifests itself most strikingly in what we do with that which we did not originate. To discover something wholly new can be a matter of chance, of idle tinkering, or even of the chronic dissatisfaction of the untalented.
Interpretation
Originality comes from our unique interpretations and uses of existing ideas rather than solely from creating something entirely new.
In this quote, Eric Hoffer explores the concept of originality, emphasizing that true creativity often arises not from invention alone but from how we manipulate and build upon existing ideas. He suggests that many innovations come from the ability to look beyond the original creation and reinterpret it, highlighting that even dissatisfaction with one’s own capabilities can lead to profound discoveries and inventive uses of what is already present.
In practice
This quote can inspire artists discussing their creative process in a gallery setting.
Language was invented to ask questions. Answers may be given by grunts and gestures, but questions must be spoken. Humanness came of age when man asked the first question. Social stagnation results not from a lack of answers but from the absence of the impulse to ask questions.
Faith in humanity, in posterity, in the destiny of one's religion, nation, race, party or family-what is it but the visualization of that eternal something to which we attach the self that is about to be annihilated?
You can discover what your enemy fears most by observing the means he uses to frighten you.
Our frustration is greater when we have much and want more than when we have nothing and want some. We are less dissatisfied when we lack many things than when we seem to lack but one thing.
Our credulity is greatest concerning the things we know least about.
Perhaps a modern society can remain stable only by eliminating adolescence, by giving its young, from the age of ten, the skills, responsibilities, and rewards of grownups, and opportunities for action in all spheres of life. Adolescence should be a time of useful action, while book learning and scholarship should be a preoccupation of adults.
Whoever is not made glorified by taqwa can find no glory.
If you have no eyes, do not walk blindly; take a staff in your hand. If you have no staff of insight, do not walk without a guide.
There are times when the utmost daring is the height of wisdom.
Grant what thou commandest and then command what thou wilt.
Mastery of language affords remarkable power.
The liberation of the human mind has never been furthered by dunderheads; it has been furthered by gay fellows who heaved dead cats into sanctuaries and then went roistering down the highways of the world, proving to all men that doubt, after all, was safe - that the god in the sanctuary was finite in his power and hence a fraud. One horse-laugh is worth ten thousand syllogisms. It is not only more effective; it is also vastly more intelligent.
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