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Slavery is so intolerable a condition that the slave can…

“Slavery is so intolerable a condition that the slave can hardly escape deluding himself into thinking that he is choosing to obey his master's commands when, in fact, he is obliged to. Most slaves of habit suffer from this delusion and so do some writers, enslaved by an all too personal style.” quote by W. H. Auden
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“Slavery is so intolerable a condition that the slave can hardly escape deluding himself into thinking that he is choosing to obey his master's commands when, in fact, he is obliged to. Most slaves of habit suffer from this delusion and so do some writers, enslaved by an all too personal style.”

W. H. Auden

About This Quote

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

Highlights how habitual obedience blinds individuals to their own agency, likening it to slavery.

In simple terms: Habitual obedience limits freedom.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and break unthinking habits.

Themes

freedom habit self-awareness critical thinking

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace culture
  • personal habits
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

Sociology psychology philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits feel like servitude?
  • How can you reclaim agency?
A Different Perspective

Changing ingrained habits requires conscious effort and support.

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