Sometimes it seems the only accomplishment my education ever bestowed on me was the ability to think in quotations.
Margaret DrabbleRead
I'd rather be at the end of a dying tradition, which I admire, than at the beginning of a tradition which I deplore.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote reflects the idea of valuing enduring traditions over starting new ones that are unappealing.
Margaret Drabble's quote emphasizes the importance of appreciating established traditions, even if they are in decline, rather than embracing new traditions that do not resonate positively. It implies that there is beauty and worth in honoring what has come before, particularly when juxtaposed with the discomfort of new ideals that do not align with one's values or beliefs.
Themes
TraditionChangeValuesAdmirationDeplore
In practice
Example use cases
A speech at a cultural festival honoring historical practices in a modern context.
More from Margaret Drabble
All quotes βOur desire to conform is greater than our respect for objective facts.
Margaret DrabbleRead
Family life itself, that safest, most traditional, most approved of female choices, is not a sanctuary: It is, perpetually, a dangerous place.
Margaret DrabbleRead
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