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To live without killing is a thought which could electrify the world, if men were only capable of staying awake long enough to let the idea soak in.
Henry Miller
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote emphasizes the transformative power of the idea of peaceful living, suggesting that awareness and contemplation could lead to profound change in society.

Henry Miller's quote reflects on the potential impact of the idea of living without violence. He suggests that if humanity could fully grasp and internalize this concept, it could lead to a revolutionary change in the world. The notion of 'staying awake' speaks to the importance of awareness and mindfulness in recognizing and embracing such a profound idea for peaceful coexistence.

Themes

PeaceAwarenessChangeViolenceHumanity

In practice

Example use cases

In a speech advocating for non-violence, one might use this quote to inspire the audience about the possibilities of peaceful living.

More from Henry Miller

Jump off. You are a protected individual. Do not fear.
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I saw through to the last sign and symbol, but I could not read her face. I could see only the eyes shining through, huge, fleshy-like luminous beasts, as though I were swimming behind them in the electric effluvia of her incandescent vision.
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The essential thing is to WANT to sing. This then is a song. I am singing.
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Great God! What have I turned into? What right have you people to clutter up my life, steal my time, probe my soul, suckle my thoughts, have me for your companion, confidant, and information bureau? What do you take me for? Am I an entertainer on salary, required every evening to play an intellectual farce under your stupid noses? Am I a slave, bought and paid for, to crawl on my belly in front of you idlers and lay at your feet all that I do and all that I know?
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We are swimming on the face of time and all else has drowned, is drowning, or will drown.
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To sing you must first open your mouth. You must have a pair of lungs, and a little knowledge of music. It is not necessary to have an accordion, or a guitar. The essential thing is to want to sing. This then is a song. I am singing.
Henry MillerRead

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