Cities Quote by Jenny Holzer
“TRYING TO BE POPULAR IN HIGH SCHOOL IS LIKE TRYING TO BE MAYOR OF A CITY THAT WON'T EXIST IN FOUR YEARS.”
About This Quote
Source Public Art Installation: “Truisms” series, 1979–1991
Popularity in high school is portrayed as a fleeting, unrealistic ambition, likened to governing a city that will soon cease to exist, highlighting its futility.
In simple terms: High school popularity is temporary and pointless.
Key Takeaway
Focus on lasting values over fleeting approval.
Themes
transience
futility
social status
adolescent pressure
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
activist
social commentary
When to use this quote
- high school dynamics
- peer pressure
- short‑term goals
- leadership aspirations
Key Concepts
existential futility
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What lasting values can replace fleeting popularity?
- How can you find purpose beyond temporary approval?
A Different Perspective
It may dismiss genuine social connections that can be meaningful.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
