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About this quote

What does it mean?
Life forces a choice between authority and subordination; one should remain active and independent.
In plain terms
You are either in charge or not; stay active.
What can you take from it?
Stand on your feet to avoid being judged.

Where it applies

  • leadership
  • personal conduct
  • social dynamics

Putting it to work

  • maintain independence
  • accept authority
  • take control

Questions to consider

  • Do you judge or accept being judged?
  • What does standing on your feet mean?

Another view

It simplifies complex power dynamics into a binary.

More from Jean Cocteau

  1. Be a constant outrage to modesty There is nothing to fear: modesty is exercised only among the blind.

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  2. Hasten slowly. Run faster than beauty.

    Permalink to quote #63
  3. Do not take up cause against the inaccuracies printed about you. They are your protection.

    Permalink to quote #60

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