Car Quote by Walter Mosley
“I think that people don't know how to do anything anymore. My father was a janitor. He could take a car apart and put it back together. He could build a house in the back yard. Today, if you ask people what they know, they say, 'I know how to hire someone.'”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Author interview, 2010
The quote laments modern loss of hands‑on skills, contrasting past self‑reliance with current reliance on hiring experts.
In simple terms: People have forgotten how to do things themselves.
Key Takeaway
Learn a practical skill today.
Themes
skill loss
self‑reliance
generational change
Mood
nostalgic
reflective
Type
observational
cautionary
When to use this quote
- home repair
- car maintenance
- DIY projects
- community workshops
Key Concepts
hand‑craftsmanship
knowledge transmission
automation
Questions to Reflect On
- What skill could you teach yourself this week?
- How can communities preserve practical knowledge?
A Different Perspective
Modern convenience can erode deep expertise.
![“Developing a good work ethic is a key [to success]. Apply yourself at whatever you do, whether you're a janitor or taking your first summer job, because that work ethic will be reflected in everything you do in life.” quote by Tyler Perry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/acc/tyler-perry-1498_developing_developing-a-good-work-ethic-is-a-key-to_361604.jpg)
