Happiness Quote by The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas Ursula K Le Guin
““As we did without clergy, let us do without soldiers. The joy built upon successful slaughter is not the right kind of joy; it will not do; it is fearful and it is trivial.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Ones Who Walk Away from Omelas” (1973)
The joy derived from violent conquest is shallow and fearsome; true joy should not rely on suffering.
In simple terms: Violence-based joy is shallow and frightening.
Seek joy that does not harm others.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- peace activism
- educational curricula
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Can joy exist without causing suffering?
- What alternatives to violent triumph exist?
Joy from violence can desensitize and perpetuate harm.