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So, dear friend, put fear out of your heart. This nation will survive, this state will prosper, the orderly business of life will go forward if only men can speak in whatever way given them to utter what their hearts hold — by voice, by posted card, by letter or by press. Reason never has failed men. Only force and repression have made the wrecks in the world.
William Allen White
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the importance of expressing oneself without fear for the betterment of society.

William Allen White highlights the significance of open communication and the necessity of overcoming fear in order to foster progress and resilience within a community or nation. He asserts that when individuals are free to express their thoughts and feelings—regardless of the medium—they contribute to the survival and prosperity of their society. It is not a lack of reason that leads to chaos, but rather suppression and coercion that stifle human potential.

Themes

FearCommunicationCourageExpressionSociety

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about freedom of speech at a rally.

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Any appeasement of tyranny is treason.
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