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The only thing in the world worth a damn is the strange, touching, pathetic, awesome nobility of the individual human spirit.
John D. Macdonald
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The essence of humanity lies in the individuality and resilience of each person.

This quote emphasizes the profound value of the individual human spirit, suggesting that the true worth of existence is found in the unique struggles, emotions, and dignities of each person. It acknowledges the complexity and nobility inherent in each individual, recognizing both their vulnerability and strength as key elements of the human experience.

Themes

Human SpiritNobilityIndividualityResilienceValue

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about perseverance and human strength.

More from John D. Macdonald

At times it seems as if arranging to have no commitment of any kind to anyone would be a special freedom. But in fact the whole idea works in reverse. The most deadly commitment of all is to be committed only to one's self. Some come to realize this after they are in the nursing home.
John D. MacdonaldRead
Integrity is not a conditional word. It doesn't blow in the wind or change with the weather.
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