None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Politics is the gizzard of society, full of grit and gravel, and the two political parties are its opposite halves - sometimes split into quarters - which grind on each other. Not only individuals but states have thus a confirmed dyspepsia.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Politics can be messy and divisive, impacting both individuals and society as a whole.
In this quote, Thoreau uses metaphorical language to depict politics as a complex and often unpleasant part of society, comparing it to a gizzard that is filled with gritty material. He suggests that the constant friction and opposition between different political parties lead to societal dysfunction and malaise, affecting not just individuals but entire states, which suffer from what he describes as 'confirmed dyspepsia.' This implies that the political landscape can create a toxic environment that complicates social harmony and well-being.
Themes
PoliticsSocietyDivisionConflictDyspepsia
In practice
Example use cases
During a lecture on political theory, you might use this quote to illustrate the inherent conflicts in political systems.
More from Henry David Thoreau
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