America Quote by Robert Hughes
“We have entered a period of intolerance which combines, as it sometimes does in America, with a sugary taste for euphemism. This conjunction fosters events that go beyond the wildest dream of satire- if satire existed in America anymore; perhaps the reason for its weakness is that reality has superseded it.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Shock of the New, Robert Hughes, 1981
The quote criticizes a cultural climate where intolerance is masked by polite language, weakening satire's power because reality is already absurd.
In simple terms: Intolerance hides behind nice words, making satire useless.
Recognize and confront harsh truths directly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- media consumption
- public debate
- art criticism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does euphemistic language protect or harm society?
- Can satire survive in an era of extreme reality?
Satire may still thrive if creators push boundaries despite complacency.