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I'm twenty-three years old, I'm working graveyard in the…

“I'm twenty-three years old, I'm working graveyard in the fucking mine and I been there since I was sixteen. I'll be thee until it kills me or I'm too fucking old. I ain't got no out. I don't mind that. I got Emma and I got the kids and I got the Moose until I'm too damn old for that too. But…” quote by Richard Wagamese
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““I'm twenty-three years old, I'm working graveyard in the fucking mine and I been there since I was sixteen. I'll be thee until it kills me or I'm too fucking old. I ain't got no out. I don't mind that. I got Emma and I got the kids and I got the Moose until I'm too damn old for that too. But someone reached down and put lightning bolts in your legs, Saul. Someone put thunder in your wrist shot and eyes in the back of your fucking head. You were made for this game. So you gotta give this a shot for all of us who're never gonna get out of Manitouwadge.””

Richard Wagamese

About This Quote

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

A miner feels trapped in a grueling job but finds purpose through family and destiny.

In simple terms: Hard labor feels endless, yet hope persists.

Key Takeaway

Seek purpose beyond work hardship.

Themes

labor destiny family resilience

Mood

determined gritty

Type

narrative inspirational

When to use this quote

  • mining towns
  • generational work
  • personal sacrifice

Key Concepts

existentialism working class determination

Questions to Reflect On

  • What gives you strength in relentless work?
  • How does destiny shape your choices?
A Different Perspective

Physical danger and health risks are severe.

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