Quote by John Henry Mackay, Anarchy

Ever reviled, accursed, ne'er understood,Thou art the grisly terror of our age.Wreck of all order, cry the multitude,Art thou, and war and murder's endless rage.O, let them cry. To them that ne'er have strivenThe truth that lies behind a word to find,To them the word's right meaning was not given.They shall continue blind among the blind.But thou, O word, so clear, so strong, so pure,Thou sayest all which I for goal have taken.I give thee to the future! Thine secureWhen each at least unto himself shall waken.Comes it in sunshine? In the tempest's thrill?I cannot tell--but it the earth shall see!I am an Anarchist! Wherefore I willNot rule, and also ruled I will not be!

Summary

This quote expresses the speaker's defiance in the face of being misunderstood and vilified. The speaker acknowledges that their beliefs and ideas are often seen as disruptive and chaotic, labeled as responsible for the world's conflicts and violence. However, they embrace this reputation, accepting that those who have not sought to understand the true meaning behind their message will continue to live in ignorance. The speaker declares their allegiance to the word "anarchist," portraying it as a powerful, pure, and clear force. They affirm their commitment to the future, believing that eventually, individuals will awaken to the truth the word represents. The speaker embraces uncertainty but asserts their determination not to be ruled or to rule over others.