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What tender and devoted mother wouldn't be dismayed and ill with terror at her son's or daughter's stepping even one hair's breath off the beaten track. No, better let him be happy and live in comfort without originality, is what every mother thinks when she rocks the cradle. The only person among us who can fail to reach the general's rank is the original man - in other words, the man who won't be quiet.
Fyodor Dostoevsky
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects the struggle between societal expectations and individual originality, particularly from a parental perspective.

Dostoevsky highlights the tension between a mother's wish for her child's comfort and happiness, which often leads to conformity, and the inherent risk associated with being an original thinker. The quote suggests that true creativity and originality may result in discomfort or failure in a conventional society, posing a challenge for both the individual and their loved ones.

Themes

OriginalitySocietyParentingComfortFailureHappinessConformity

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about creativity in education, this quote can emphasize the need for nurturing originality despite societal pressures.

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