"At home, you always have to be a politician; when you're abroad, you almost feel yourself a statesman"

In this quote, previous British Prime Minister Harold MacMillan is highlighting the plain contrast in between how one needs to behave in your home versus when they are abroad. He suggests that in the house, one need to always bear in mind their actions and words, just like a politician who must continuously navigate the complexities of domestic politics. However, when one is abroad, they are removed from the familiar environment and might feel a sense of importance and authority, almost like a statesman representing their nation on the international stage. This quote speaks to the various functions and expectations placed on individuals depending upon their area, and the capacity for a shift in point of view when one is beyond their comfort zone.