If you feel dirty, insignificant or unloved, then rats are a good role model. They exist without permission, they have no respect for the hierarchy of society, and they have sex 50 times a day.
BanksyRead
I originally set out to try and save the world, but now I'm not sure I like it enough.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the disillusionment that can come from idealism versus the reality of the world.
Banksy’s quote suggests a journey from a noble intention of saving the world to a recognition of personal doubts and frustrations with it. This transition speaks to the struggle between altruistic desires and the harsh circumstances that can lead to disenchantment, challenging the listener to reflect on their own motivations and the complexities of action in an imperfect world.
Themes
DisillusionmentIdealismWorldChangeDoubt
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about social activism and personal motivations, this quote can highlight the complexities faced by activists.
More from Banksy
All quotes →T.V. has made going to the theatre seem pointless, photography has pretty much killed painting but graffiti has remained gloriously unspoilt by progress.
BanksyRead
Graffiti ultimately wins out over proper art because it becomes part of your city, it' s a tool; "I'll meet you in that pub, you know, the one opposite that wall with a picture of a monkey holding a chainsaw". I mean, how much more useful can a painting be than that?
BanksyRead
Think outside the box, collapse the box, and take a f**king sharp knife to it.
BanksyRead
Gaza is often described as 'the world's largest open air prison' because no-one is allowed to enter or leave. But that seems a bit unfair to prisons - they don’t have their electricity and drinking water cut off randomly almost every day.
BanksyRead
A lot of mothers will do anything for their children, except let them be themselves.
BanksyRead
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