Quote by George Orwell
For the ordinary man is passive. Within a narrow circle (home life, and perhaps the trade unions or local politics) he feels himself master of his fate, but against major events he is as helpless as against the elements. So far from endeavouring to influence the future, he simply lies down and lets things happen to him.
Summary
This quote suggests that the ordinary person tends to be passive and complacent, feeling in control of their immediate surroundings and personal matters, such as their home life or involvement in local organizations. However, when faced with significant events or larger forces at play, they feel powerless and unable to shape their future. Rather than actively trying to shape or impact these larger forces, they surrender agency and allow themselves to be carried along by circumstances. This quote highlights the tendency of many individuals to accept what comes their way rather than taking a proactive approach to influencing their own destiny.