For being good is a fearful occupation; men strain at it &…
““For being good is a fearful occupation; men strain at it & sometimes break in two. I've known a few. You work twice as hard to be a farmer as to be his hog.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Being good is portrayed as a demanding, risky endeavor that can break a person, especially in harsh work like farming, highlighting the moral strain of virtue.
In simple terms: Doing good can be hard and exhausting.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the cost of moral effort.
Themes
morality
hardship
labor
ethical strain
resilience
Mood
somber
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- farming
- social work
- activism
- caregiving
- leadership
Key Concepts
existentialism
ethical philosophy
working class struggles
Questions to Reflect On
- What sacrifices do you make for integrity?
- Is it worth the personal cost?
A Different Perspective
Goodness may not always be rewarded; it can lead to burnout.