What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
As an old soldier, I admit the cowardice: it's as universal as seasickness, and matters just as little.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote acknowledges that fear and cowardice are common human experiences, much like seasickness, which are insignificant in the broader context of life.
George Bernard Shaw's quote reflects the idea that cowardice is a universal feeling experienced by many, particularly in times of struggle or combat. By comparing cowardice to seasickness, Shaw emphasizes that such feelings are not only common but also transient and ultimately inconsequential in the grand scheme of life. This recognition of shared vulnerability can foster understanding and compassion towards oneself and others.
Themes
CowardiceFearCourageUniversalitySeasickness
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech addressing the courage to face one's fears.
More from George Bernard Shaw
All quotes βMarriage is good enough for the lower classes: they have facilities for desertion that are denied to us.
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
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Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
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Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
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