World events are the work of individuals whose motives are often frivolous, even casual.
Interpretation
World events can be influenced by individual actions that may seem trivial or unimportant.
This quote by Gore Vidal highlights the notion that significant world events often stem from the actions of individuals whose motivations may not be as profound or serious as one might expect. It suggests a skepticism about the grand narratives we create around history, reminding us that sometimes the trajectory of major changes can be the result of seemingly trivial decisions made by individuals acting on whim or personal gain.
In practice
During a discussion on how small actions can lead to major political changes.
We must declare ourselves, become known; allow the world to discover this subterranean life of ours which connects kings and farm boys, artists and clerks. Let them see that the important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
American writers want to be not good but great; and so are neither.
Writing fiction has become a priestly business in countries that have lost their faith.
The important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
For the average American, freedom of speech is simply the freedom to repeat what everyone else is saying and no more.
Ayn Rand's 'philosophy' is nearly perfect in its immorality, which makes the size of her audience all the more ominous and symptomatic as we enter a curious new phase in our society.... To justify and extol human greed and egotism is to my mind not only immoral, but evil.
Reality is a question of perspective.
There are no elements so diverse that they cannot be joined in the heart of a man.
Holiness has nothing to do with what we know and everything to do with Who we know.
Isolation is a way to know ourselves.
One cannot use an evil action with reference to a good intention.
There is nothing deep down inside us except what we have put there ourselves.
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