Acquaintance Quote by Lu Xun
“Revolution is a bitter thing, mixed with filth and blood, not as lovely or perfect as the poets think. It is eminently down to earth, involving many humble, tiresome tasks, not so romantic as the poets think... . So it is easy for all who have romantic dreams about revolution to become disillusioned on closer acquaintance, when a revolution is actually carried out.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “On Revolution”, 1925
Revolution is messy, grounded in brutal reality, and far from the romantic ideal; expectations often lead to disillusionment.
In simple terms: Revolution is harsh, not poetic.
Key Takeaway
Expect realistic outcomes.
Themes
politics
social change
idealism
reality
Mood
cautious
realistic
Type
historical
motivational
When to use this quote
- political movements
- social reforms
- grassroots activism
Key Concepts
revolutionary theory
human cost
pragmatism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can movements prepare participants for the gritty work ahead?
- What balance should be struck between vision and practicality?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic narratives can obscure necessary hardships.
![“[In] every revolution, there is a great divergence between what the revolutionaries expect and what the revolution actually accomplishes.” quote by Akbar Ganji](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ffb/akbar-ganji-14195_accomplish_in-every-revolution-there-is-a-great-div_299335.jpg)
![“[On an anarchist acquaintance:] Everything in appearance the most alarmist aunt could wish.” quote by Sylvia Townsend Warner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ae9/sylvia-townsend-warner-7063_acquaintance_on-an-anarchist-acquaintance-everything_72515.jpg)
![“[Books] will visit you at your convenience, whether you are lonesome or not, on rainy days or fair. They propose themselves as either transient acquaintances or permanent friends. They will stay as long as you like, departing or returning as you wish. Their friendship entails no obligation. Best…” quote by Clifton Fadiman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/08b/clifton-fadiman-11053_acquaintance_books-will-visit-you-at-your-convenience_75546.jpg)
