Quote by W. H. Auden

In a land which is fully settled, most men must accept their local environment or try to change it by political means; only the exceptionally gifted or adventurous can leave to seek his fortune elsewhere. In America, on the other hand, to move on and make a fresh start somewhere else is still the normal reaction to dissatisfaction and failure.

In a land which is fully settled, most men must accept their

Summary

This quote highlights the difference between settled lands and America in terms of individuals' response to dissatisfaction and failure. In settled lands, people typically resort to either accepting their circumstances or trying to bring about change through political means. Only a few exceptionally talented or bold individuals have the opportunity to venture out and seek their fortune elsewhere. However, in America, it is considered a normal reaction to move on and start afresh in a different location when faced with discontent or setbacks. This emphasis on the freedom to explore new possibilities is seen as a distinctive characteristic of American society.

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Satisfaction

By W. H. Auden

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