Don't you think," said Father Rothschild gently, "that…
““Don't you think," said Father Rothschild gently, "that perhaps it is all in some way historical? I don't think people ever want to lose their faith either in religion or anything else. I know very few young people, but it seems to me that they are all possessed with an almost fatal hunger for permanence. I think all these divorces show that. People aren't content just to muddle along nowadays ... And this word "bogus" they all use ... They won't make the best of a bad job nowadays. My private schoolmaster used to say, "If a thing's worth doing at all, it's worth doing well." My Church has taught that in different words for several centuries. But these young people have got hold of another end of the stick, and for all we know it may be the right one. They say, "If a thing's not worth doing well, it's not worth doing at all." It makes everything very difficult for them.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage critiques modern youth’s obsession with perfection and permanence, suggesting they reject the value of effort and accept mediocrity.
In simple terms: Young people chase perfection, dismissing effort.
Key Takeaway
Value effort over perfection.
Themes
youth
perfectionism
values
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- education
- career choices
- creative work
- personal relationships
- faith discussions
Key Concepts
existentialism
cultural critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does the pursuit of perfection hinder growth?
- Can embracing imperfection improve fulfillment?
A Different Perspective
May overgeneralize an entire generation.