There is a folk-tale about a shoemaker and his wife who…
““There is a folk-tale about a shoemaker and his wife who were so poor that they had to send their many children out into the world to make a living. The lads went through many a perilous adventure but came home in the end, unscathed, to help their mother. They had always remembered their mother's advice and wise words; they often quoted them when they were in trouble, and in fact they recognized one another by them in foreign lands. The countless peoples of the world may be looked upon as so many children sent out into the world. They have gone through many adventures and hardships. They have drifted apart and fallen out with one another, on many occasions. They have failed to realize soon enough that they are brothers. But now it seems that they are beginning to realize this -- at least to the extent that they are able to get acquainted with each other's fundamental natures -- through their stories and songs.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Humanity is likened to many scattered children who, through shared stories and songs, rediscover their common bond despite separation and conflict.
In simple terms: People are like scattered children who find unity through shared stories.
Key Takeaway
Seek common narratives to bridge divisions.
Themes
unity
storytelling
humanity
diversity
Mood
hopeful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- family reunions
- international diplomacy
- community building
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
collective identity
shared narrative
cultural memory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can shared narratives foster genuine understanding?
- What risks arise when we assume commonality?
A Different Perspective
Stories may oversimplify complex histories and ignore power imbalances.