The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat.
Lily TomlinRead
Ninety eight percent of the adults in this country are decent, hardworking, honest Americans. It's the other lousy two percent that get all the publicity. But then, we elected them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights how a small minority of people can overshadow the majority's virtue, often due to media attention.
Lily Tomlin's quote underscores the reality that the majority of people are decent and hardworking, yet it is the few who engage in negative behaviors that tend to attract the most attention. This paradox highlights societal dynamics where sensationalism overshadows everyday decency, drawing attention to the importance of recognizing the positive contributions of the majority while also critiquing the system that allows the minority to gain prominence.
Themes
DecencyPublicitySocietyMinorityMajority
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech addressing community values, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of recognizing the good in people.
More from Lily Tomlin
All quotes βSometimes I worry about being a success in a mediocre world.
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The road to success is always under construction.
Lily TomlinRead
Truth is, I've always been selling out. The difference is that in the past, I looked like I had integrity because there were no buyers.
Lily TomlinRead
Why is it that when we talk to God we're said to be praying but when God talks to us we're schizophrenic?
Lily TomlinRead
Sometimes I feel like a figment of my own imagination.
Lily TomlinRead
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