I'd rather have two good friends, than 500,000 admirers.
E. E. CummingsRead
Humanity I love you because when you're hard up you pawn your intelligence to buy a drink.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote humorously highlights the paradox of human behavior where one might sacrifice their intellect for fleeting pleasures during tough times.
E. E. Cummings's quote illustrates the complex and often absurd nature of humanity. It suggests that in moments of desperation, people may resort to irrational actions, such as sacrificing their intellect—symbolized by pawning it—to indulge in momentary escapism like drinking. It reflects a deep understanding of the struggles faced by individuals, combining affection for humanity with a critique of its shortcomings.
Themes
HumanityIntelligenceDesperationDrinkingParadoxHumor
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a speech about the absurdities of human behavior at a graduation ceremony.
More from E. E. Cummings
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It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.
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When god decided to invent everything he took one reath bigger than a circustent and everything began
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The Artist is no other than he who unlearns what he has learned, in order to know himself.
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Nobody else can be alive for you; nor can you be alive for anybody else.
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