I can't go back. The past won't go away in this family.
Frank MccourtRead
You're beginning to hear the tale of the common man and woman rather than the traditional memoir about the generals who just finished the war or the politicians who just rendered glorious service to the country.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of sharing the stories of ordinary people rather than glorifying only prominent figures.
Frank McCourt's quote highlights a shift in narrative focus from the grandiose accounts of military leaders and politicians to the everyday experiences of common individuals. It suggests that history should be inclusive of the voices of regular men and women, acknowledging their struggles and stories, as these contribute significantly to our understanding of society and culture.
Themes
Common ManNarrativeStorytellingHistoryVoicesOrdinary
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about community history, you could use this quote to emphasize the importance of local stories.
More from Frank Mccourt
All quotes →Sit and quiet yourself. Luxuriate in a certain memory and the details will come. Let the images flow. You'll be amazed at what will come out on paper. I'm still learning what it is about the past that I want to write. I don't worry about it. It will emerge. It will insist on being told.
Frank MccourtRead
Kids all want to look cool, as if knowledge is a great burden, but they're always looking around. They remember.
Frank MccourtRead
That's what kept us going - a sense of absurdity, rather than humor.
Frank MccourtRead
A mother's love is a blessing No matter where you roam. Keep her while you have her, You'll miss her when she's gone -- Angela's Ashes.
Frank MccourtRead
You might be poor, your shoes might be broken, but your mind is a palace.
Frank MccourtRead
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