Air Quote by Edwin Hubbel Chapin
“Why, man of idleness, labor has rocked you in the cradle, and nourished your pampered life; without it, the woven silk and the wool upon your bank would be in the shepherd's fold. For the meanest thing that ministers to human want, save the air of heaven, man is indebted to toil; and even the air, in God's wise ordination, is breathed with labor.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Labor of Man, attributed to Edwin Hubbel Chapin, 19th century
Labor is essential to human existence; even the air we breathe is linked to work, highlighting our dependence on effort.
In simple terms: Work is fundamental to life.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and value the role of effort in everyday life.
Themes
work
dependence
human nature
spirituality
purpose
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
ethical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career development
- personal growth
- community building
- environmental stewardship
Key Concepts
economics
theology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- What forms of work are truly fulfilling?
- How can societies ensure fair labor conditions?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may idealize labor, ignoring exploitation and inequity.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
![“[A]s you partake of the world's bill of fare, that's darned good advice to follow. Do a lot of spitting out the hot air. And be careful what you swallow.” quote by Dr. Seuss](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/da8/dr-seuss-1224_advice_a-s-you-partake-of-the-world-s-bill-of-f_6806.jpg)