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My work means that we have lived in different parts of the…

“My work means that we have lived in different parts of the world and in each there has always been something to be afraid of. Gangsters, extremist political groups Right and Left tossing bombs into restaurants, hijacks, holdups, a city plumb on the line of an earthquake fault. We have long had a…” quote by Nadine Gordimer
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““My work means that we have lived in different parts of the world and in each there has always been something to be afraid of. Gangsters, extremist political groups Right and Left tossing bombs into restaurants, hijacks, holdups, a city plumb on the line of an earthquake fault. We have long had a compact, with ourselves, with life; life is dangerous. We live with that; in the one certainty that fear is the real killer.””

Nadine Gordimer

About This Quote

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

Fear is a constant, pervasive force across societies, shaping behavior and survival more than any other factor.

In simple terms: Fear dominates life worldwide.

Key Takeaway

Recognize fear’s influence and seek collective safety.

Themes

conflict political violence earthquake risk urban life

Mood

somber thoughtful

Type

philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • living in conflict zones
  • natural disaster preparedness
  • urban planning
  • community building

Key Concepts

social psychology risk perception collective trauma

Questions to Reflect On

  • What measures reduce communal fear?
  • How does fear affect decision‑making?
A Different Perspective

Fear can be mitigated through solidarity and preparedness.

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