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What kind of times are they, when A talk about trees is almost a crime Because it implies silence about so many horrors?
Bertolt Brecht
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses concern about societal issues being ignored in favor of trivial topics.

Bertolt Brecht's quote highlights a profound societal critique, suggesting that discussing nature, represented by trees, is seen as inappropriate during times filled with significant human suffering and injustice. It implies that focusing on such peaceful subjects can detract from the urgent need to address the horrors that are occurring, thus reflecting a moral dilemma about the responsibilities of individuals in acknowledging and confronting social issues.

Themes

SocietySilenceInjusticeNatureAwareness

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech about environmental conservation, one might reference this quote to emphasize the urgency of addressing both ecological and social issues.

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The shrill voices of those who give orders Are full of fear like the squeakings of Piglets awaiting the butcher's knife, as their fat arses Sweat with anxiety in their office chairs.... Fear rules not only those who are ruled, but The rulers too.
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Recently my fingers have developed a prejudice against comparatives. They all follow this pattern: a squirrel is smaller than a tree; a bird is more musical than a tree. Each of us is the strongest one in his or her own skin. Characteristics should take off their hats to one another, instead of spitting in each other's faces.
Bertolt BrechtRead

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