Arms Quote by Olive Schreiner
“We all enter the world little plastic beings, with so much natural force, perhaps, but for the rest--blank; and the world tells uswhat we are to be, and shapes us by the ends it sets before us. To you it says--Work; and to us it says--Seem! To you it says--As you approximate to man's highest ideal of God, as your arm is strong and your knowledge great, and the power to labour is with you, so you shall gain all that human heart desires. To us it says--Strength shall not help you, nor knowledge, nor labour. You shall gain what men gain, but by other means. And so the world makes men and women.”
About This Quote
Society imposes expectations that shape individuals, but personal strength and knowledge alone may not fulfill deeper desires; alternative paths exist.
In simple terms: Society shapes us, but true fulfillment may need other means.
Key Takeaway
Seek personal meaning beyond societal expectations.
Themes
society
identity
purpose
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- career choices
- personal relationships
- spiritual quests
Key Concepts
existentialism
social conditioning
Questions to Reflect On
- What does "the world tells us" mean to you?
- How can you define your own ideals?
A Different Perspective
Societal pressure can limit authentic self‑discovery.
