"I am certainly an ought and not a must"
- E. M. Forster
About this Quote
This quote by E. M. Forster is a reflection on the concept of obligation and option. By stating "I am certainly an ought and not a must," Forster is suggesting that he is not obliged to do something, but rather that he must do it. This implies that he has the freedom to pick whether or not to do something, which he is not bound by any external forces. This quote talks to the concept of individual autonomy and the power of choice. It recommends that we should aim to make choices based upon our own worths and beliefs, instead of being required to do something by external forces. This quote also talks to the idea of obligation and accountability. By saying "I am definitely an ought and not a must," Forster is suggesting that he is responsible for his own actions and that he should take ownership of his choices. Ultimately, this quote is a suggestion that we have the power to pick our own paths and that we must make every effort to make choices that remain in line with our worths and beliefs.
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