I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Elections belong to the people. It's their decision. If they decide to turn their back on the fire and burn their behinds, then they will just have to sit on their blisters.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that elections are a reflection of the people's choices, and they must face the consequences of those choices.
In this quote, Abraham Lincoln underscores the importance of civic responsibility and the accountability that comes with democratic participation. He suggests that people have the power to shape their governance through their votes, but if they neglect this responsibility—symbolized by 'turning their back on the fire'—they will ultimately suffer the repercussions of their inaction, which leads to regret and discomfort ('sit on their blisters'). Thus, it serves as a warning for citizens to be engaged and informed in their electoral decisions.
Themes
ElectionsPeopleResponsibilityConsequencesDemocracy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of voting in local elections.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes →Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
Abraham LincolnRead
Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
Abraham LincolnRead
How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
Abraham LincolnRead
For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
Abraham LincolnRead
And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
Similar quotes
The short memories of the American voters is what keeps our politicians in office.
Will RogersRead
People talk about the Patriot Act that was passed immediately in the wake of September 11. What the Patriot Act did was break down the walls between the various agencies.
Robert MuellerRead
The organized workers of America, free in their industrial life, conscious partners in production, secure in their homes and enjoying a decent standard of living, will prove the finest bulwark against the intrusion of alien doctrines of government.
John L. LewisRead
It's not normal that, when you close your eyes and listen to the news, too often the political back-and-forth in America sounds too much like it does in the kinds of countries that the State Department warns Americans not to travel to.
John F. KerryRead
Politics is the art of acquiring, holding, and wielding power.
Indira GandhiRead
Customs, traditions, laws should be flexible, within good reason, if that is what it takes to make our democracy work.
John LewisRead