Perhaps our originality manifests itself most strikingly in what we do with that which we did not originate. To discover something wholly new can be a matter of chance, of idle tinkering, or even of the chronic dissatisfaction of the untalented.
Interpretation
Originality comes from our unique interpretations and uses of existing ideas rather than solely from creating something entirely new.
In this quote, Eric Hoffer explores the concept of originality, emphasizing that true creativity often arises not from invention alone but from how we manipulate and build upon existing ideas. He suggests that many innovations come from the ability to look beyond the original creation and reinterpret it, highlighting that even dissatisfaction with one’s own capabilities can lead to profound discoveries and inventive uses of what is already present.
In practice
This quote can inspire artists discussing their creative process in a gallery setting.
Language was invented to ask questions. Answers may be given by grunts and gestures, but questions must be spoken. Humanness came of age when man asked the first question. Social stagnation results not from a lack of answers but from the absence of the impulse to ask questions.
Faith in humanity, in posterity, in the destiny of one's religion, nation, race, party or family-what is it but the visualization of that eternal something to which we attach the self that is about to be annihilated?
You can discover what your enemy fears most by observing the means he uses to frighten you.
Our frustration is greater when we have much and want more than when we have nothing and want some. We are less dissatisfied when we lack many things than when we seem to lack but one thing.
Our credulity is greatest concerning the things we know least about.
Perhaps a modern society can remain stable only by eliminating adolescence, by giving its young, from the age of ten, the skills, responsibilities, and rewards of grownups, and opportunities for action in all spheres of life. Adolescence should be a time of useful action, while book learning and scholarship should be a preoccupation of adults.
There's hard lessons in this world. What's the hardest? I dont know. Maybe it's just that when things are gone they're gone. They aint comin back.
Let a man be endowed with ten virtues and have but one fault and the one fault will eclipse and darken all the virtues.
One of the essential tasks for living a wise life is letting go. Letting go is the path to freedom. It is only by letting go of the hopes, the fears, the pain, the past, the stories that have a hold on us that we can quiet our mind and open our heart.
The failure of academic feminists to recognize difference as a crucial strength is a failure to reach beyond the first patriarchal lesson. In our world, divide and conquer must become define and empower.
I don't underrate the value of military knowledge, but if men make war in slavish obedience to rules, they will fail.
Look for Christ and you will find Him, and with Him everything else thrown in
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