"I have become a prisoner of the peace movement. But you can't say that the termination is coming and then say that you are going back to your own garden to dig"
- E. P. Thompson
About this Quote
This quote by E. P. Thompson speaks with the idea of being dedicated to a cause. He is saying that he has ended up being a prisoner of the tranquility motion, meaning that he has dedicated himself to the reason and also is no more able to avert from it. He is implying that it is not possible to be associated with the motion and after that turn away from it, as if it were a temporary dedication. He is claiming that he is currently a detainee of the peace activity, which he can not simply return to his own yard to dig, as if nothing had actually taken place. This quote talks with the concept of commitment as well as dedication to a cause, and also how it can become a component of one's life. It is a pointer that once we come to be involved in something, it can be tough to turn away from it, which we need to be prepared to make a long-lasting commitment if we are to truly make a distinction.
"When the principles that run against your deepest convictions begin to win the day, then the battle is your calling, and peace has become sin. You must at the price of dearest peace lay your convictions bare before friend and enemy with all the fire of your faith"