Clock Quote by Nat Hentoff
“Even though the clock didn't work, we kept the clock because of how we felt about Franklin D. Roosevelt . A lot since then I knew about FDR I wouldn't have been so enthusiastic.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Radio program on historical memory, 1972
Reflects on keeping a symbolic clock despite its malfunction, driven by emotional attachment to FDR’s legacy.
In simple terms: Keeps a broken clock because of sentimental value linked to Roosevelt.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge emotional ties in preserving symbols.
Themes
memory
nostalgia
symbolism
Mood
nostalgic
contemplative
Type
historical
personal
When to use this quote
- museum curation
- historical education
- personal reflection
- heritage preservation
Key Concepts
historical legacy
personal sentiment
cultural artifacts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we preserve objects that no longer function?
- How does nostalgia shape historical narratives?
A Different Perspective
Sentimental value may cloud objective assessment of usefulness.
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