But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
Lord ByronRead
For what were all these country patriots born? To hunt, and vote, and raise the price of corn?
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote questions the purpose of patriotic citizens, suggesting that their roles are limited to mundane tasks rather than noble ideals.
Lord Byron's quote reflects a cynical view of patriotism, implying that the so-called patriots of a country are primarily engaged in trivial pursuits like hunting and voting, rather than contributing to the greater good of society. It critiques the shallow motivations associated with national pride, suggesting that such actions do not fulfill a higher purpose.
Themes
PatriotismPoliticsPurposeSocietyCynicism
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about modern politics, one might use this quote to highlight the trivial engagement of citizens.
More from Lord Byron
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Absence - that common cure of love.
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Her great merit is finding out mine; there is nothing so amiable as discernment.
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But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.
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For truth is always strange; stranger than fiction.
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