Anyone with gumption and a sharp mind will take the measure of two things: what's said and what's done.
Seamus HeaneyRead
I believe we are put here to improve civilisation.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that our purpose is to enhance and better society.
Seamus Heaney's quote emphasizes the belief that human existence is intrinsically linked to the improvement of civilization. It underlines the responsibility we have as individuals to contribute positively to the society around us, fostering growth, understanding, and progress for future generations.
Themes
CivilizationImprovementPurposeResponsibilitySociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about community service, one might say, 'As Seamus Heaney stated, I believe we are put here to improve civilization.'
More from Seamus Heaney
All quotes βWhat I've said before, only half in joke, is that everybody in Ireland is famous. Or, maybe better, say everybody is familiar.
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The kinds of truth that art gives us many, many times are small truths. They don't have the resonance of an encyclical from the Pope stating an eternal truth, but they partake of the quality of eternity. There is a sort of timeless delight in them.
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If self is a location, so is love: Bearings taken, markings, cardinal points, Options, obstinacies, dug heels, and distance, Here and there and now and then, a stance.
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In my early teens, I acquired a kind of representative status: went on behalf of the family to wakes and funerals and so on. And I would be counted on as an adult contributor when it came to farm work - the hay in the summertime, for example.
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I think that water is immediately interesting. It's just, as an element, it is full of life. It is associated with origin; it is bright - it reflects you.
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