Every man Quote by John Steinbeck
““Maybe you'll come to know that every man in every generation is refired. Does a craftsman, even in his old age, lose his hunger to make a perfect cup--thin, strong, translucent?" He held his cup to the light. " All impurities burned out and ready for a glorious flux, and for that-- more fire. And then either the slag heap or, perhaps what no one in the world ever quite gives up, perfection." He drained his cup and he said loudly, "Cal, listen to me. Can you think that whatever made us-- would stop trying?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: East of Eden, 1952
The quote reflects on perpetual human striving for perfection, likening it to a craftsman's endless quest to refine his work despite age.
In simple terms: People keep seeking improvement forever.
Key Takeaway
Never stop pursuing excellence.
Themes
perseverance
craftsmanship
perfection
human spirit
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career development
- artistic creation
- personal improvement
- overcoming complacency
Key Concepts
Existentialism
alchemy
growth mindset
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your endless pursuit of better?
- How do you balance ambition with acceptance?
A Different Perspective
Even with relentless effort, true perfection may be unattainable.
![“Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit. My three [great teachers] did not tell - they catalyzed a burning desire to know. Under their influence, the horizons sprung wide and fear went away and the unknown became knowable. But most important of…” quote by John Steinbeck](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/84c/john-steinbeck-71_art_teaching-might-even-be-the-greatest-of-t_1738.jpg)
![“Vote for Donald Trump. You're going to see something and you'll be so happy, you'll be so thrilled. This [presidential] election is about every man, woman and child in our country who deserves to live in safety, prosperity and peace, so true.” quote by Donald Trump](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/18e/donald-trump-18_children_vote-for-donald-trump-you-re-going-to-se_1553.jpg)
