Heaven Quote by Jack London
““Oh!--and I speak out of later knowledge--Heaven forefend me from the most of the average run of male humans who are not good fellows, the ones cold of heart and cold of head who don't smoke, drink, or swear, or do much of anything else that is brase, and resentful, and stinging, because in their feeble fibres there has never been the stir and prod of life to well over its boundaries and be devilish and daring. One doesn't meet these in saloons, nor rallying to lost causes, nor flaming on the adventure-paths, nor loving as God's own mad lovers. They are too busy keeping their feet dry, conserving their heart-beats, and making unlovely life-successes of their spirit-mediocrity.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Iron Heel by Jack London, 1908
The speaker laments that most people lack daring and passion, preferring safety over bold, reckless living.
In simple terms: Most people choose safety over daring.
Key Takeaway
Embrace boldness, seek adventure.
Themes
conformity
mediocrity
passion
Mood
reflective
critical
philosophical
Type
observational
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- career choices
- personal relationships
- creative projects
- risk taking
Key Concepts
existentialism
individualism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you prioritize safety over excitement?
- What would a daring life look like for you?
A Different Perspective
Boldness can lead to reckless harm if unchecked.
