Drinking Quote by Eleanor Rathbone
“the explanation of the ebb and flow of the women's movement ... is partly psychological. During those early post-war years when successes came thick and fast and were almost thrust upon us, the nation was still under the influence of the reconstruction spirit, when everything seemed possible ... A few years later the nation had reached the stage which follows a drinking bout. It was feeling ruefully in its empty pockets. It did not want to part with anything to anybody. Its head ached. Noble sentiments made it feel sick. It wanted only to be left alone.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Post‑World‑War II commentary, 1940s
The passage describes a shift from post‑war optimism to a weary, self‑preserving national mood, highlighting psychological fatigue and loss of collective idealism.
In simple terms: After war, the nation grew tired and self‑focused.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and address collective fatigue.
Themes
post‑war optimism
national mood
psychology
Mood
melancholic
critical
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- historical study
- social policy
Key Concepts
collective identity
economic strain
Questions to Reflect On
- How does collective fatigue affect policy?
- What can revive a sense of shared purpose?
A Different Perspective
Nostalgia can blind current challenges.
