Cynicsm Quote by Terry Pratchett
““You'd like Freedom, Truth, and Justice, wouldn't you, Comrade Sergeant?' said Reg encouragingly. 'I'd like a hard-boiled egg,' said Vimes, shaking the match out. There was some nervous laughter, but Reg looked offended. 'In the circumstances, Sergeant, I think we should set our sights a little higher--' 'Well, yes, we could,' said Vimes, coming down the steps. He glanced at the sheets of papers in front of Reg. The man cared. He really did. And he was serious. He really was. 'But...well, Reg, tomorrow the sun will come up again, and I'm pretty sure that whatever happens we won't have found Freedom, and there won't be a whole lot of Justice, and I'm damn sure we won't have found Truth. But it's just possible that I might get a hard-boiled egg.””
About This Quote
The passage juxtaposes lofty ideals with mundane desires, highlighting the tension between idealism and everyday practicality.
In simple terms: Idealism vs. practicality
Key Takeaway
Great goals can be eclipsed by simple needs.
Themes
Idealism
Pragmatism
Humor
Disillusionment
Humanity
Mood
Wry
Reflective
Type
Satire
Dialogue
When to use this quote
- Political discourse
- Personal decision‑making
- Workplace negotiations
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
Everyday life
Expectation vs. reality
Practical Applications
- Motivational speaking
- Satirical writing
Questions to Reflect On
- When do we let practical needs override higher ideals?
- How can we balance ambition with daily reality?
