Skip to content

But 'Thou mayest!'! Why, that makes a man great, that…

“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” quote by John Steinbeck
Download Open image
“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”

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

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

A person can achieve greatness despite flaws by consciously choosing a noble path and persisting against adversity.

In simple terms: Greatness comes from choosing and fighting for good despite flaws.

Key Takeaway

Choose purposefully and persevere.

Themes

choice redemption human nature willpower

Mood

reflective determined

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • family conflict
  • ethical dilemmas
  • leadership challenges

Key Concepts

existentialism moral agency tragic heroism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What choices define your character?
  • How do you confront inner darkness?
A Different Perspective

Even with noble choices, external forces can limit outcomes.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by John Steinbeck

Explore all 1,589 John Steinbeck quotes

More Brother quotes

Browse all 7,453 Brother quotes