Skip to content

I have enough daily bread, so I won't waste time on that…

“I have enough daily bread, so I won't waste time on that. It isn't the main problem. The problem is getting it down without choking on it. Now we come to forgiveness. Don't worry about forgiving me right now. There are more important things. For instance: keep the others safe, if they are safe…” quote by Margaret Atwood
Download Open image
““I have enough daily bread, so I won't waste time on that. It isn't the main problem. The problem is getting it down without choking on it. Now we come to forgiveness. Don't worry about forgiving me right now. There are more important things. For instance: keep the others safe, if they are safe. Don't let them suffer too much. If they have to die, let it be fast. You might even provide a Heaven for them. We need You for that. Hell we can make for ourselves.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

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

The speaker prioritizes survival and forgiveness, emphasizing practical concerns over abstract moral debates, and acknowledges humanity’s capacity for self‑inflicted suffering.

In simple terms: Focus on survival and practical forgiveness, not endless moral talk.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize safety and practical forgiveness.

Themes

survival forgiveness practicality humanity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • emergency response
  • conflict resolution
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

ethical pragmatism mortality self‑preservation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does forgiveness mean in crisis?
  • How do you balance practicality with moral reflection?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on practicality may ignore deeper moral growth.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Margaret Atwood

Explore all 2,072 Margaret Atwood quotes

More Daily bread quotes

Browse all 181 Daily bread quotes