Character Quote by Walt Whitman
““What blurt is this about virtue and about vice? Evil propels me and reform of evil propels me, I stand indifferent, My gait is no fault-finder's or rejecter's gait, I moisten the roots of all that has grown.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Leaves of Grass, 1855
The speaker reflects on moral ambiguity, the drive of evil, and a detached stance toward judgment, while nurturing growth.
In simple terms: Moral ambiguity and indifference to judgment, yet fostering growth.
Accept complexity and nurture development.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal ethics
- philosophical debate
- creative writing
- spiritual contemplation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does indifference affect moral responsibility?
- Can growth occur without judgment?
Such detachment may lead to apathy or lack of accountability.