Ah!' said Lee. 'I’ve wanted to tell you this for a long…
““Ah!' said Lee. 'I’ve wanted to tell you this for a long time. I even anticipated your questions and I am well prepared. Any writing which has influenced the thinking and the lives of innumerable people is important. Now, there are many millions in their sects and churches who feel the order, ‘Do thou,’ and throw their weight into obedience. And there are millions more who feel predestination in ‘Thou shalt.’ Nothing they may do can interfere with what will be. But ‘Thou mayest’! Why, that makes a man great, that gives him stature with the gods, for in his weakness and his filth and his murder of his brother he has still the great choice. He can choose his course and fight it through and win.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote emphasizes human agency and the power of choice over deterministic fate, suggesting that moral greatness stems from the ability to act despite flaws.
In simple terms: Choice gives power despite destiny.
Key Takeaway
Embrace responsibility and act.
Themes
free will
morality
human nature
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- spiritual growth
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical agency
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you exercise choice in difficult situations?
- What limits your sense of agency?
A Different Perspective
Determinism challenges the notion of free will.