Behind every successful man is a woman, behind her is his wife.
Groucho MarxRead
Why should I care about posterity? What's posterity ever done for me?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote questions the value of caring for future generations when they seem to offer nothing in return.
Groucho Marx's quote expresses skepticism towards the concept of posterity, suggesting that a focus on future generations may be misguided if they do not contribute to the present. It reflects a more self-centered perspective, questioning the obligation to consider the welfare of those who will come after us when one's own needs and contributions are not immediately recognized or rewarded.
Themes
PosterityFutureSelfishnessContributionPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about environmental conservation, one might use this quote to highlight the tension between current self-interests and future responsibilities.
More from Groucho Marx
All quotes βJohn you say you met in an elevator. Was the elevator going up at the time, or down? This is very important, for going down in an elevator one always has that sinking feeling and for all I know you may have this confused with love. If you were going up, it is clearly a case of love at first sight.
Groucho MarxRead
Firefly: Where is your husband? Mrs. Teasdale: Why, he's dead. Firefly: I'll bet he's just using that as an excuse. Mrs. Teasdale: I was with him to the very end. Firefly: Hmmph. No wonder he passed away. Mrs. Teasdale: I held him in my arms and kissed him. Firefly: Oh I see. Then, it was murder.
Groucho MarxRead
Chico: "Here's the book, it's a dollar" Groucho: "Here's a ten, and shoot the change." Chico: "I don't have change I'd have to give you nine more books.
Groucho MarxRead
Gentlemen, Chicolini here may talk like an idiot, and look like an idiot, but don't let that fool you: he really is an idiot. I implore you, send him back to his father and brothers, who are waiting for him with open arms in the penitentiary. I suggest that we give him ten years in Leavenworth, or eleven years in Twelveworth.
Groucho MarxRead
Die, my dear? Why that's the last thing I'll do!
Groucho MarxRead
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