Skip to content

In a world where it means so much to take a man by the…

“In a world where it means so much to take a man by the hand and sit beside him, to look frankly into his eyes and feel his heart beating with red blood; in a world where a social cigar or a cup of tea together means more than legislative halls and magazine articles and speeches,—one can imagine…” quote by W.E.B. Du Bois
Download Open image
““In a world where it means so much to take a man by the hand and sit beside him, to look frankly into his eyes and feel his heart beating with red blood; in a world where a social cigar or a cup of tea together means more than legislative halls and magazine articles and speeches,—one can imagine the consequences of the almost utter absence of such social amenities between estranged races, whose separation extends even to parks and streetcars.””

W.E.B. Du Bois

About This Quote

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

Human connection through simple rituals counters social bonds, and without them, racial division deepens.

In simple terms: Simple shared moments build social bonds; their loss widens division.

Key Takeaway

Foster everyday shared experiences.

Themes

social connection race community

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

sociological inspirational

When to use this quote

  • neighborhood gatherings
  • public spaces
  • interracial dialogues

Key Concepts

sociology psychology anthropology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What everyday rituals can bridge racial divides?
  • How can public spaces be made more inclusive?
A Different Perspective

The quote may idealize interactions without addressing systemic barriers.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by W.E.B. Du Bois

Explore all 53 W.E.B. Du Bois quotes

More Cup of tea quotes

Browse all 495 Cup of tea quotes