Communists Quote by Jan Valtin
““The hours slipped by, and the men and the girls talked and talked as only communists of that wild and irresponsible period could talk when they were omong themselves. They were as preoccupied with their own importance and their revolutionairy tasks as children are with new and engrossing toys. I listened as if under a spell. After all, compared with the tight-lipped conspirators of a later decade, we were like children partaking of a heavy wine.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Unknown Soldier, Jan Valtin, 1945
The narrator observes youthful, reckless revolutionary zeal, comparing it to childlike play and later more secretive conspiracies.
In simple terms: Revolutionaries act like children with new toys, later becoming secretive.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the naiveté in early activism.
Themes
revolution
youth
naiveté
secrecy
Mood
reflective
nostalgic
Type
historical
observational
When to use this quote
- political rallies
- student movements
- activist gatherings
- historical retrospectives
Key Concepts
political idealism
psychology of groups
historical perspective
Questions to Reflect On
- How does youthful idealism shape political movements?
- What risks arise when activism becomes secretive?
A Different Perspective
Early enthusiasm can blind participants to consequences.
