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About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker expects judgment from others for refusing to conform to social expectations.
In plain terms
People will call you strange for not fitting in.
What can you take from it?
Standing out invites criticism.

Where it applies

  • being different
  • facing criticism
  • refusing to comply

Putting it to work

  • ignoring gossip
  • staying true to self
  • defying norms

Questions to consider

  • Have you been judged for being different?
  • Why do we conform?

Another view

It assumes negative reactions are inevitable.

More from Gwendolyn Brooks

  1. I shall not sing a May song. A May song should be gay. I'll wait until November And sing a song of gray.

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  2. I hold my honey and I store my bread In little jars and cabinets of my will. I label clearly, and each latch and lid I bid, Be firm till I return from hell.

    Permalink to quote #15
  3. He is not there but You know you are tasting together The winter, or a light spring weather. His hand to take your hand is overmuch. Too much too bear.

    Permalink to quote #12

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