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About this quote

What does it mean?
Basic needs must be met before one can serve a country.
In plain terms
You cannot love your country if you are hungry.
What can you take from it?
Survival comes before patriotism.

Where it applies

  • social policy
  • civil unrest
  • poverty

Putting it to work

  • address hunger first
  • support basic needs

Questions to consider

  • Can patriotism exist without security?
  • What is the cost of duty?

Another view

People often sacrifice for ideals despite hardship.

More from William Cowper

  1. Ever let the Fancy roam, Pleasure never is at home.

    Permalink to quote #102
  2. The innocent seldom find an uncomfortable pillow.

    Permalink to quote #104
  3. Ye who, borne about in chariots and sedans know no fatigue but that of idleness.

    Permalink to quote #101

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