Able Quote by Wendell Berry
“We can say without exaggeration that the present national ambition of the United States is unemployment. People live for quitting time, for weekends, for vacations, and for retirement; moreover, this ambition seems to be classless, as true in the executive suites as on the assembly lines. One works not because the work is necessary, valuable, useful to a desirable end, or because one loves to do it, but only to be able to quit - a condition that a saner time would regard as infernal, a condemnation.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Unemployment of America, 1970s
The U.S. culture values leisure and quitting over meaningful work, turning employment into a means to an end rather than a fulfilling purpose.
In simple terms: Work is seen as a way to quit, not a calling.
Key Takeaway
Seek purpose, not just escape.
Themes
work
leisure
purpose
societal values
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
essay
social commentary
When to use this quote
- career planning
- policy debate
- personal fulfillment
Key Concepts
alienation
consumerism
meaninglessness
Questions to Reflect On
- What would a purpose‑driven work life look like?
- How can society re‑value meaningful labor?
A Different Perspective
May overlook those who find intrinsic value in work.
