What is patriotism? Is it love of one's birthplace, the place of childhood's recollections and hopes, dreams and aspirations? Is it the place where, in childlike naivete, we would watch the passing clouds, and wonder why we, too, could not float so swiftly? The place where we would count the milliard glittering stars, terror-stricken lest each one 'an eye should be,' piercing the very depths of our little souls?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Goldman questions the definition of patriotism by listing innocent childhood associations with one's birthplace.
- In plain terms
- She asks if patriotism is really just loving your hometown or its memories.
- What can you take from it?
- Patriotism often romanticizes simple local ties.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What does loving your country mean?
- How does place shape identity?
Another view
Love of place is a valid human feeling.
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