In the wintertime, in the snow country, citrus fruit was so rare, and if you got one, it was better than ambrosia.
James Earl JonesRead
And I think, on the other end, there were actors who were not as good as I was, perhaps who could have hung in too, but began to blame everything on race.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote addresses the tendency to attribute personal failures to external factors such as race, rather than acknowledging one's own abilities or shortcomings.
James Earl Jones reflects on individuals who, despite their potential talent, deflect their lack of success onto racial barriers. This perspective emphasizes the importance of self-assessment and personal responsibility in achieving success, rather than solely focusing on societal limitations. The quote invites introspection about how one perceives obstacles and the narratives we create around our experiences.
Themes
RaceSuccessPersonal ResponsibilitySelf-AssessmentTalentObstacles
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about overcoming hardships during a motivational speech.
More from James Earl Jones
All quotes →More and more, when I single out the person out who inspired me most, I go back to my grandfather.
James Earl JonesRead
Love was just a word to me. Until you came along and gave it meaning.
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The goal wasn't to be a millionaire or to be a Hollywood star. That was not the goal. The goal was something about - the goal was to find the goal, but I knew where it was.
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Just so you know, there's a space that only you can fill. Just so you know, I loved you then, I guess I always will.
James Earl JonesRead
You sang in church, you know, and you didn't act at all. You tried not to act, you tried to tell the truth. The idea of being a troubadour on the road singing for your supper was very disturbing to him.
James Earl JonesRead
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