Archer Quote by Elizabeth Cady Stanton
“They tell us sometimes that if we had only kept quiet, all these desirable things would have come about of themselves. I am reminded of the Greek clown who, having seen an archer bring down a flying bird, remarked, sagely: 'You might have saved your arrow, for the bird would anyway have been killed by the fall.'”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Women's Rights Convention, 1869, New York
The quote suggests that passive hope is ineffective; action is needed to achieve desired outcomes.
In simple terms: Passive hope won’t bring results; act.
Key Takeaway
Take initiative instead of waiting.
Themes
action
responsibility
agency
feminism
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- activism
- political campaigns
- personal goal setting
- community organizing
Key Concepts
determinism
free will
social change
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions could you take now?
- How do you balance hope and effort?
A Different Perspective
Even with effort, external forces may still prevent success.
