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Time Quote by John Steinbeck

“fear the time when Manself will not suffer and die for a concept, for this one quality is the foundation of Manself, and this one quality is man, distinctive in the universe.” quote by John Steinbeck
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““fear the time when Manself will not suffer and die for a concept, for this one quality is the foundation of Manself, and this one quality is man, distinctive in the universe.””

John Steinbeck

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck, 1939

The quote warns that losing personal sacrifice for abstract ideas erodes true humanity, which is defined by self‑suffering for a cause.

In simple terms: Self‑sacrifice defines humanity; abandoning it empties us.

Key Takeaway

Preserve personal sacrifice as core identity.

Themes

humanity self‑sacrifice identity philosophy

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • war
  • political activism
  • personal crisis
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

existentialism moral foundation individualism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What causes you to sacrifice yourself?
  • Is sacrifice always noble?
A Different Perspective

It may romanticize suffering without addressing its costs.

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