The world of the 20th century, if it is to come to life in any viability of health and vigor, must be to a significant degree an American century.
Henry R. LuceRead
Not much longer shall we have time for reading lessons of the past. An inexorable present calls us to the defense of a great future.
Interpretation
What this quote means
We must focus on the present and future rather than getting lost in past lessons.
Henry R. Luce emphasizes the importance of the present moment and the urgency it brings in shaping a promising future. While the past offers valuable lessons, it is the present that demands action and consideration for what lies ahead, urging us to defend the potential of our future against the challenges we face today.
Themes
PresentFutureActionPastDefenseUrgency
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a graduation speech to inspire students to focus on their future.
More from Henry R. Luce
All quotes βI became a journalist to come as close as possible to the heart of the world.
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There are men who can write poetry, and there are men who can read balance sheets. The men who can read balance sheets cannot write.
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Show me a man who claims he is objective and I'll show you a man with illusions.
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Business, more than any other occupation, is a continual dealing with the future; it is a continual calculation, an instinctive exercise in foresight.
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