To say 'I love you' one must first be able to say the 'I.'
Ayn RandRead
And here, over the portals of my fort, I shall cut in the stone the word which is to be my beacon and my banner. The word which will not die should we all perish in battle. The word which can never die on this earth, for it is the heart of it and the meaning and the glory. The sacred word: EGO
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of individualism and self-identity as a guiding principle in life.
Ayn Rand’s quote expresses the idea that the concept of 'Ego' is essential for human existence and significance. It symbolizes the foundation of strength and glory, suggesting that individualism and personal identity are vital, enduring forces that persist even in the face of adversity and mortality. Rand elevates 'Ego' to a sacred status, indicating that it encompasses the essence of human life and is a beacon of purpose and direction.
Themes
EgoIndividualismIdentityStrengthPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about personal growth, one might use this quote to emphasize the need for self-identity.
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All quotes →The difference between animals and humans is that animals change themselves for the environment, but humans change the environment for themselves.
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It is my eyes which see, and the sight of my eyes grants beauty to the earth. It is my ears which hear, and the hearing of my ears gives its song to the world. It is my mind which thinks, and the judgement of my mind is the only searchlight that can find the truth. It is my will which chooses, and the choice of my will is the only edict I must respect.
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What is the basic, the essential, the crucial principle that differentiates freedom from slavery? It is the principle of voluntary action versus physical coercion or compulsion.
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One method of destroying a concept is by diluting its meaning. Observe that by ascribing rights to the unborn, i.e., the nonliving, the anti-abortionists obliterate the rights of the living.
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I think that when in doubt about the truth of an issue, it's safer and in better taste to select the least numerous of the adversaries.
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