You can't imagine how stupid the whole world has grown nowadays.
Interpretation
This quote reflects a cynical view of societal decline and the perception of increasing foolishness in the world.
Nikolai Gogol's quote encapsulates a humorous yet critical observation about the state of the world. It suggests that the speaker feels that there is a noticeable decline in common sense and intelligence among people today, which can be seen as a reflection of frustration with societal behaviors or trends. While the statement is somewhat exaggerated, it encourages readers to reflect on the irrationalities they observe in daily life and how these may contribute to an overall sense of disillusionment.
In practice
In a speech about societal issues, one might use this quote to highlight trends of misinformation.
At the end of the table, the secretary was reading the decision in some case, but in such a mournful and monotonous voice, that the condemned man himself would have fallen asleep while listening to it. The judge, no doubt, would have been the first of all to do so, had he not entered into an engrossing conversation while it was going on.
Two turtle doves will show thee Where my cold ashes lie And sadly murmuring tell thee How in tears I did die
Nothing could be more pleasant than to live in solitude, enjoy the spectacle of nature, and occasionally read some book.
I here ask pardon of all my compatriots for everything of which I have been guilty towards them. I know that, by my ill-considered and immature works, I have brought distress to many and that I have even provoked others to attack me openly and, in general, have produced displeasure in many.
If you have not first pondered the entire situation of the man whom you wish to help, and if you have not brought with you instructions for him to follow henceforth in leading his life, he will not receive great good from your help.
There are certain words which are nearer and dearer to a man than any others.
So Fox News is the voice of America and Obama is Stalin? Oh my God! I guess that makes me Yakov Smirnoff.
My favourite comedian, of course, is Tim Conway. He has a way about him - being that belly-laugh kind of funny, and he has the improvisational skills, too. I've never seen anybody better.
I always just forced myself to do crazy things in public. In college I would push an overhead projector across campus with my pants just low enough to show my butt. Then my friend would incite the crowd to be like, 'Look at that idiot!' That's how I got over being shy.
Kindle, isn’t it?” the waitress asked. “I got one for Christmas, and I love it. I’m reading my way through all of Jodi Picoult’s books.” “Oh, probably not all of them,” Wesley said. “Huh? Why not?” “She’s probably got another one done already. That’s all I meant.” “And James Patterson’s probably written one since he got up this morning!” she said, and went off chortling.
Bore, n. A person who talks when you wish him to listen.
Will you marry me? Do you have any money? Answer the second question first.
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