Circle Quote by Lorraine Hansberry
“It isn't a circle--it is simply a long line--as in geometry, you know, one that reaches into infinity. And because we cannot see the end--we also cannot see how it changes. And it is very odd by those who see the changes--who dream, who will not give up--are called idealists...and those who see only the circle we call them the "realists"!”
About This Quote
Source Play: A Raisin in the Sun, 1959
The quote contrasts endless possibility (the line) with fixed certainty (the circle), labeling dreamers as idealists and pragmatists as realists.
In simple terms: Endless possibilities vs. fixed certainty; idealists vs. realists.
Key Takeaway
Recognize both vision and practicality.
Themes
vision
idealism
realism
perception
hope
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- creative projects
- career planning
- personal growth
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance dreaming and realistic planning?
- When does realism become limiting?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may ignore practical constraints.
![“[Beneatha Younger:]... He said everybody ought to learn how to sit down and hate each other with good Chrisitan fellowship. [excerpt from Act II, Scene 3]” quote by Lorraine Hansberry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b88/lorraine-hansberry-7953_prejudice_beneatha-younger-he-said-everybody-ought_110748.jpg)
![“[T]here is only one large circle that we march in, around and around, each of us with our own little picture -- in front of us -- our own little mirage that we think is the future.” quote by Lorraine Hansberry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/157/lorraine-hansberry-7953_circles_t-here-is-only-one-large-circle-that-we_177181.jpg)
