Ideas are like rabbits. You get a couple and learn how to handle them, and pretty soon you have a dozen.
John SteinbeckRead
The last clear definite function of man — muscles aching to work, minds aching to create beyond the single need — this is man.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the intrinsic need of humans to work and create, suggesting that our true nature transcends mere survival.
In this quote, John Steinbeck reflects on the fundamental essence of humanity, emphasizing that while our physical bodies are designed for labor and our minds crave creativity, our desires extend beyond the basics of survival. He suggests that the essence of being human lies in our urge to engage in meaningful work and creative endeavors, indicating that fulfillment comes not just from meeting basic needs but from pursuing deeper passions and purposes.
Themes
Human NatureWorkCreationFulfillmentPurpose
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a motivational speech about pursuing one's passions.
More from John Steinbeck
All quotes →At one point, as Samuel urges Adam to raise his boys well regardless of the blood that might be in them, Adam tells him, "You can't make a race horse of a pig." Samuel replies, "No, but you can make a very fast pig.
John SteinbeckRead
And when that crop grew, and was harvested, no man had crumbled a hot clod in his fingers and let the earth sift past his fingertips. No man had touched the seed, or lusted for the growth. Men ate what they had not raised, had no connection with the bread. The land bore under iron, and under iron gradually died; for it was not loved or hated, it had no prayers or curses.
John SteinbeckRead
The comfortable people in tight houses felt pity at first, and then distaste, and finally hatred for the migrant people.
John SteinbeckRead
People do not want advice - they want corroboration.
John SteinbeckRead
It is one of the triumphs of the human that he can know a thing and still not believe it.
John SteinbeckRead
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