You can't imagine how stupid the whole world has grown nowadays.
Interpretation
This quote reflects a cynical view of societal decline and the perception of increasing foolishness in the world.
Nikolai Gogol's quote encapsulates a humorous yet critical observation about the state of the world. It suggests that the speaker feels that there is a noticeable decline in common sense and intelligence among people today, which can be seen as a reflection of frustration with societal behaviors or trends. While the statement is somewhat exaggerated, it encourages readers to reflect on the irrationalities they observe in daily life and how these may contribute to an overall sense of disillusionment.
In practice
In a speech about societal issues, one might use this quote to highlight trends of misinformation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To watch a football game is to be in a prolonged neurotic doubt as to what you're seeing. It's more like an emergency happening at a distance than a game. I don't wonder the spectators take to drink.
Now, some people do this for shock value. Shock is just another uptown word for surprise. Granted it has a different quality to it, but a joke is about surprising someone. I'm a great believer in context. You can joke about anything. I do like finding out where the line is drawn, deliberately crossing it and bringing some of them with me across the line, and having them be happy that I did.
Think of how stupid the average person is, and realize half of them are stupider than that.
Donald Trump is the Honey Boo Boo of rich people.
I'm lucky I don't make my living in front of the camera.
I am not only witty in myself, but the cause that wit is in other men.
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