The Englishman never enjoys himself except for a noble purpose. He does not play cricket because it is a good game, but because it creates good citizens. He does not love motor-races for their own sake, but for the advantages they bring to the engineering firms of his country. And it is common knowledge that the devoted persons who conduct and regularly attend horse-races do not do so because they like it, but for the benefit of the breed of the English horse.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- English pastimes are justified by their contribution to society or industry rather than personal enjoyment.
- In plain terms
- Activities are valued for their societal benefits, not fun.
- What can you take from it?
- Justify leisure through social contribution.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Should activities have a higher purpose?
- Is fun a valid goal?
Another view
Personal enjoyment can be a valid reason for activities.
More from A. P. Herbert
The critical period in matrimony is breakfast-time.
Permalink to quote #15 'Was the cow crossed?' 'No, your worship, it was an open cow.'
Permalink to quote #17 A man who has made up his mind on a given subject twenty-five years ago and continues to hold his political opinions after he has been proved to be wrong is a …
Permalink to quote #14
Related quotes
Men spend their time chasing a ball or a hare; it is the very sport of kings. (141)
Blaise PascalBlaise Pascal quote #38 Utility is the great idol of the age, to which all powers must do service and all talents swear allegiance.
Friedrich von SchillerFriedrich von Schiller quote #141 It is startling that those in the media and academia appear most disturbed by this aberrant behavior, since they have zealously promoted moral relativism by sa…
Rick SantorumRick Santorum quote #1