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It was reasonable to struggle, to suffer, perhaps even to die, for a more just, a more compassionate society, but not in a world with no future where, all to soon, the very words "justice," "compassion," "society," "struggle," "evil," would be unheard echoes on an empty air.
P. D. James
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote underscores the importance of fighting for justice in a society that has a future, emphasizing that suffering is worthwhile only if it leads to positive change.

P. D. James reflects on the moral imperative to strive for a just and compassionate society, suggesting that while struggle and sacrifice are often necessary, they lose their value in a world that lacks hope for a better future. The quote serves as a warning against despair, illustrating that the concepts of justice and compassion are meaningless in a void, where they are no longer recognized or valued.

Themes

JusticeCompassionSocietyFutureStruggleEvilHope

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech advocating for social change, this quote can motivate individuals to take action for a better future.

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I believe that political correctness can be a form of linguistic fascism, and it sends shivers down the spine of my generation who went to war against fascism.
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What a child doesn't receive he can seldom later give.
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Open your mind to new experiences, particularly to the study of other ­people. Nothing that happens to a writer – however happy, however tragic – is ever wasted.
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It was one of those perfect English autumnal days which occur more frequently in memory than in life.
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