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The time when I had desire to go to the United States I…

“The time when I had desire to go to the United States I didn't have a penny. It was in the middle of the depression, you know. I couldn't get as far as Hoboken at that time.” quote by Ben Shahn
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“The time when I had desire to go to the United States I didn't have a penny. It was in the middle of the depression, you know. I couldn't get as far as Hoboken at that time.”

Ben Shahn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Recalls a time of extreme poverty during the Depression, unable to travel far despite desire.

In simple terms: Poverty limited travel dreams.

Key Takeaway

Seek opportunities despite scarcity.

Themes

history poverty aspiration

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

historical personal

When to use this quote

  • migration
  • career goals
  • education

Key Concepts

Great Depression economic hardship

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does scarcity shape ambition?
  • What resources can overcome financial limits?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize hardship.

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