Prejudices are what fools use for reason.
VoltaireRead
To hold a pen is to be at war.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Writing is a powerful act that can influence and create conflict.
Voltaire's quote suggests that the act of writing is inherently combative, as words can challenge ideas, provoke thought, and even spark societal change. The pen symbolizes the power of expression and the ability to wield influence, much like a weapon in a battle for truth and justice.
Themes
WritingPowerInfluenceExpressionConflict
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is perfect for a writers' workshop to emphasize the impact of words.
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It is not sufficient to see and to know the beauty of a work. We must feel and be affected by it.
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We are all full of weakness and errors; let us mutually pardon each other our follies - it is the first law of nature.
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It is better to risk saving a guilty man than to condemn an innocent one.
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