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It’s clear that you want to seem original. But is it…

“It’s clear that you want to seem original. But is it possible that you—?” “It is clear,” interrupted I-330, “that to be original means to stand out among others; consequently, to be original means to violate the law of equality. What was called in the language of the ancients ‘to be common’ is…” quote by Yevgeny Zamyatin
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““It’s clear that you want to seem original. But is it possible that you—?” “It is clear,” interrupted I-330, “that to be original means to stand out among others; consequently, to be original means to violate the law of equality. What was called in the language of the ancients ‘to be common’ is with us only the fulfilling of one’s duty. For—””

Yevgeny Zamyatin

About This Quote

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

Originality is framed as rebellion against equality, suggesting that true duty is to be common, not unique.

In simple terms: Being original means breaking equality.

Key Takeaway

Balance individuality with social duty.

Themes

originality equality duty

Mood

critical philosophical

Type

theoretical provocative

When to use this quote

  • artistic creation
  • political discourse
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

philosophy social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is conformity always virtuous?
  • When should one challenge the norm?
A Different Perspective

Uniformity can suppress innovation and personal growth.

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