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Artist Quote by Tom Tomorrow

“To keep doing this job [draw political cartoons] week after week, I think you have to want to change the world, while understanding that you can't. You have to hold both of those contradictory ideas simultaneously.” quote by Tom Tomorrow
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“To keep doing this job [draw political cartoons] week after week, I think you have to want to change the world, while understanding that you can't. You have to hold both of those contradictory ideas simultaneously.”

Tom Tomorrow

About This Quote

Source Interview: Cartoonist Tom Tomorrow, The New Yorker, 2015

Balancing idealism with realism is essential for sustained creative work in political satire.

In simple terms: You must want change but accept limits.

Key Takeaway

Embrace paradox, keep creating.

Themes

political satire creativity idealism realism

Mood

reflective determined

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • daily cartoon production
  • activism
  • media commentary
  • personal burnout

Key Concepts

cognitive dissonance motivation ethical responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you stay motivated when change seems impossible?
  • What strategies keep you grounded yet hopeful?
A Different Perspective

Idealism alone can lead to frustration; realism may stifle boldness.

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