It's easier for the former masters to put aside the masks that hid their humanity than for the former slaves to recognise the faces underneath. Or to trust that this is not a new mask these are wearing.
Nadine GordimerRead
A truly living human being cannot remain neutral.
Interpretation
What this quote means
One must take a stance in life rather than remain indifferent.
Nadine Gordimer's quote suggests that to truly live and engage with the world, one cannot simply adopt a neutral position. Instead, individuals are compelled to take sides in their beliefs and actions, as remaining neutral can be a state of complacency that undermines the essence of being human. This speaks to the moral obligation of individuals to stand up for what they believe in and the importance of active participation in societal issues.
Themes
NeutralityActionBeliefEngagementSociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a motivational speech to encourage activism against social injustices.
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The caged eagle become a metaphor for all forms of isolation, the ultimate in imprisonment. A zoo is prison.
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