"No man can be a patriot on an empty stomach"

This quote by William Cowper is a pointer that patriotism is not just a feeling, but an action. It implies that in order to be a true patriot, one should be able to attend to their nation and its people. Without the fundamental necessities of life, such as food, it is difficult to be a patriot. Cowper is suggesting that if an individual is having a hard time to provide for themselves, they can not be expected to attend to their nation. This quote is a pointer that patriotism is not just a feeling, but an action that needs resources. It is a call to action for those in positions of power to make sure that all people have access to the basic requirements of life, so that they can be real patriots. It is likewise a pointer that patriotism is not just a sensation, however an action that needs resources. In order for people to be able to add to their nation, they must first have access to the standard necessities of life.