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For my part I have sought liberty more than power, and…

“For my part I have sought liberty more than power, and power only because it can lead to freedom. What interested me was not a philosophy of the free man (all who try that have proved tiresome), but a technique: I hoped to discover the hinge where our will meets and moves with destiny, and where…” quote by Marguerite Yourcenar
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“For my part I have sought liberty more than power, and power only because it can lead to freedom. What interested me was not a philosophy of the free man (all who try that have proved tiresome), but a technique: I hoped to discover the hinge where our will meets and moves with destiny, and where discipline strengthens, instead of restraining, our nature.”

Marguerite Yourcenar

About This Quote

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

She values liberty over power, seeking a method where will aligns with destiny, and discipline enhances rather than restricts nature.

In simple terms: Freedom is preferred; power is a means to achieve it, with discipline as a supportive tool.

Key Takeaway

Find the balance where will meets destiny.

Themes

freedom power discipline destiny will

Mood

thoughtful determined

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • political theory
  • leadership training

Key Concepts

philosophy self‑mastery ethical agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • What is the “hinge” between will and destiny?
  • How can discipline be empowering?
A Different Perspective

Power can corrupt if not checked; discipline may feel restrictive.

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