Work Quote by Edgar Lee Masters
“Those who first oppose a good work, seize it and make it their own, when the corner - stone is laid and memorial tablets are erected”
About This Quote
Source Poetry: Spoon River Anthology by Edgar Lee Masters, 1915
Highlights how opposition can co-opt noble efforts, turning them into personal agendas once they gain prominence.
In simple terms: Opposition can hijack good work.
Key Takeaway
Guard the integrity of projects.
Themes
power
corruption
idealism
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- policy making
- organizational leadership
- community projects
Key Concepts
political science
ethics
social movements
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you protect a cause from being co-opted?
- What mechanisms ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
May underestimate the complexity of opposition.
