Quote by Sydney Smith

A nation grown free in a single day is a child born with the limbs and the vigor of a man, who would take a drawn sword for his rattle, and set the house in a blaze that he might chuckle over the splendor.

A nation grown free in a single day is a child born with the

Summary

This quote suggests that when a nation achieves independence suddenly or without adequate preparation, it can be likened to a child born with the physical abilities of an adult. This metaphor implies that such a nation may recklessly use its newfound power for destructive or harmful purposes, without fully understanding the consequences. The mention of a drawn sword for a rattle symbolizes a dangerous playfulness, while setting the house ablaze represents the potential chaos and destruction that can arise from hasty actions. Overall, the quote warns against the dangers of abrupt independence without proper nurturing and maturation.

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By Sydney Smith

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