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I have no more than twenty acres of ground," he replied…

“I have no more than twenty acres of ground," he replied, "the whole of which I cultivate myself with the help of my children; and our labor keeps off from us the three great evils - boredom, vice, and want.” quote by Voltaire
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““I have no more than twenty acres of ground," he replied, "the whole of which I cultivate myself with the help of my children; and our labor keeps off from us the three great evils - boredom, vice, and want.””

Voltaire

About This Quote

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

Self-sufficient farming with family labor prevents boredom, vice, and want, highlighting the value of modest, honest work.

In simple terms: Working the land with family avoids three major evils.

Key Takeaway

Embrace simple, productive living.

Themes

self‑reliance family contentment

Mood

reflective practical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • rural homesteads
  • family farms
  • community gardens
  • self‑sufficiency projects

Key Concepts

agricultural philosophy virtue minimalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What small steps can urban dwellers take toward self‑reliance?
  • How does community support reduce boredom?
A Different Perspective

Modern economies may limit feasibility of small‑scale farming.

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