Let no man write my epitaph... When my country takes her place among the nations of the earth, then shall my character be vindicated, then may my epitaph be written.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the idea that a person's true character should be recognized in the context of their contributions to society and their country.
Robert Emmet's quote asserts that the worth of an individual should not be judged until their country achieves a distinguished status among other nations. It reflects the notion that personal legacy and character are deeply intertwined with national identity and values, suggesting that honor and recognition should come after one's contributions have had a significant impact.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech about national pride during a celebration of independence.
"Let there be no inscription upon my tomb. Let no man write my epitaph. No man can write my epitaph. I am here ready to die. I am not allowed to vindicate my character; and when I am prevented from vindicating myself, let no man dare calumniate me. Let my character and motives repose in obscurity and peace, till other times and other men can do them justice.
Not till your thoughts cease all their branching here and there, not till you abandon all thoughts of seeking for something, not till your mind is motionless as wood or stone, will you be on the right road to the Gate.
How can we live without our lives? How will we know it's us without our past?
There is no self-knowledge but an historical one. No one knows what he himself is who does not know his fellow men, especially the most prominent one of the community, the master's master, the genius of the age.
A shocking crime was committed on the unscrupulous initiative of few individuals, with the blessing of more, and amid the passive acquiescence of all.
I've studied authoritarianism for a very long time - for 40 years - and they're started by people's attempts to control the ideological and linguistic territory.
When the State is corrupt, then the laws are most multiplied.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.