Common man Quote by Frank Lloyd Wright
““Our forefathers were not only brave. I believe they were right. I believe that what they meant was that every man born had equal right to grow from scratch by way of his own power unhindered to the highest expression of himself possible to him. This of course not antagonistic by sympathetic to the growth of all men as brothers. Free emulation not imitation of the "bravest and the best" is to be expected of him. Uncommon he may and will and should become as inspiration to his fellows, not a reflection upon them, not to be resented but accepted--and in this lies the only condition of the common man's survival. So only is he intrinsic to democracy. Persistently holding quality above quantity only as he attempts to live a superior life of his own, and to whatsoever degree in whatever case he finds it; this is his virtue in a democracy such as ours was designed to be. Only this sense of proportion affords tranquility of spirit, in itself beauty, in either character of action. Nature is never other than serene even in a thunderstorm. The assumption of the "firm countenance, lips compressed" in denial or resentment is not known to her as it is known to civilization. Such negation by human countenance may be moral (civilization is inclined to morality) but even so not nature. Again exuberance is repose but never excess.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Lecture on Democracy, 1930s, United States
The quote argues that true democracy requires each individual to pursue personal excellence, not merely imitate the elite, fostering collective growth and tranquility.
In simple terms: Democracy thrives when people seek personal greatness, not just copy the best.
Encourage personal excellence for societal benefit.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- leadership development
- community building
- personal coaching
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance individual ambition with collective welfare?
- What safeguards prevent elite imitation from becoming oppressive?
Imitation of elites can still inspire positive change; not everyone can achieve exceptional status.