We wait till now? Now, when we're old men, we get to be brave?
Ernest GainesRead
He told us that most of us would die violently, and those who did not would be brought down to the level of beasts.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the harsh realities of life and the loss of humanity in the face of violence and oppression.
In this quote, Ernest Gaines emphasizes the grim outlook on human existence, suggesting that the majority will face violent ends, while others may become dehumanized due to their circumstances. It serves as a powerful commentary on the struggles of humanity, highlighting the consequences of societal violence and the potential loss of dignity among those who survive.
Themes
ViolenceHumanityDehumanizationSocietyExistence
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the impacts of war on societies, this quote could highlight the loss of humanity in conflict.
More from Ernest Gaines
All quotes →I was raised by a lady that was crippled all her life but she did everything for me and she raised me. She washed our clothes, cooked our food, she did everything for us. I don't think I ever heard her complain a day in her life. She taught me responsibility towards my brother and sisters and the community.
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...my heart may have been in it but my soul was not.
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Everything's been said, but it needs saying again.
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Question everything. Every stripe, every star, every word spoken. Everything.
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