America Quote by Wendell Berry
![“[All the ancient wisdom] tells us that work is necessary to us, as much a part of our condition as mortality; that good work is our salvation and our joy; that shoddy or dishonest or self-serving work is our curse and our doom. We have tried to escape the sweat and sorrow promised in Genesis…” quote by Wendell Berry](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7c1/wendell-berry-236_america_all-the-ancient-wisdom-tells-us-that-wor_1212112.jpg)
“[All the ancient wisdom] tells us that work is necessary to us, as much a part of our condition as mortality; that good work is our salvation and our joy; that shoddy or dishonest or self-serving work is our curse and our doom. We have tried to escape the sweat and sorrow promised in Genesis - only to find that, in order to do so, we must forswear love and excellence, health and joy. (pg. 44, "The Unsettling of America")”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Unsettling of America, Wendell Berry, 1970
Work is essential to human purpose; honest labor brings joy, while dishonest work leads to ruin.
In simple terms: Good work is vital; bad work harms us.
Key Takeaway
Pursue meaningful, honest work.
Themes
purpose
labor
ethics
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
motivational
When to use this quote
- career choices
- personal fulfillment
- societal impact
Key Concepts
meaningful work
honesty
ful
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you align your job with personal values?
- What steps foster honest work in your field?
A Different Perspective
Ideal work may be hard to find in modern economies.
![“I'll smoke, I'll cough, I'll get the tumors, I'll die, deal? Thank you America. [salutes]” quote by Bill Hicks](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/3d2/bill-hicks-970_america_i-ll-smoke-i-ll-cough-i-ll-get-the-tumor_655.jpg)
