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I do not like Moscow life. You live here not as you want to live, but as old women want you to.
Alexander Pushkin
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote expresses a dissatisfaction with societal constraints that dictate how one should live.

In this quote, Alexander Pushkin critiques the conformist nature of life in Moscow, suggesting that the desires and expectations of traditional values imposed by older generations inhibit individual freedom and personal expression. It reflects a broader sentiment about how societal norms can restrict one's authentic way of living, prompting a reflection on the tension between personal desires and external pressures.

Themes

MoscowLifeFreedomSocietyConformity

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about societal expectations, one may quote this to highlight the importance of individual freedom.

More from Alexander Pushkin

Thank you, darling, for learning to play chess. It is an absolute necessity for any well organized family. (in a letter to his wife)
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I loved you; even now I may confess, Some embers of my love their fire retain; But do not let it cause you more distress, I do not want to sadden you again. Hopeless and tongue tied, yet I loved you dearly With pangs the jealous and the timid know; So tenderly I loved you, so sincerely, I pray God grant another love you so.
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I loved you: and, it may be, from my soul The former love has never gone away, But let it not recall to you my dole; I wish not sadden you in any way. I loved you silently, without hope, fully, In diffidence, in jealousy, in pain; I loved you so tenderly and truly, As let you else be loved by any man.
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I have outlasted all desire, My dreams and I have grown apart; My grief alone is left entire, The gleamings of an empty heart. The storms of ruthless dispensation Have struck my flowery garland numb, I live in lonely desolation And wonder when my end will come. Thus on a naked tree-limb, blasted By tardy winter's whistling chill, A single leaf which has outlasted Its season will be trembling still.
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My dreams, my dreams! What has become of their sweetness? What indeed has become of my youth?
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Thus people--so it seems to me-- Become good friends from sheer ennui.
Alexander PushkinRead

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