"I think that's what really a substantial work is, it's forever. It's the truth now and it was the truth then, and it will be the truth tomorrow"
About this Quote
The quote by Abbey Lincoln catches an enduring essence of what constitutes considerable and meaningful work, be it in art, literature, music, or any other field. Lincoln suggests that such work possesses an ageless quality, transcending the temporal confines of "now", "then", and "tomorrow". It resonates throughout ages due to the fact that it encapsulates an essential reality that is widely recognized, no matter prevailing situations or cultural shifts.
At its core, the idea conveyed is that significant work shows a core reality or principle that remains relevant and impactful irrespective of the passage of time. It is as if the work embodies an everlasting veracity, enabling it to connect deeply with people throughout different durations and contexts. This might involve exploring styles that are essentially human-- such as love, justice, battle, happiness, or sadness-- themes that echo throughout human history and remain essential no matter the era.
Lincoln's reflection highlights that attaining such timelessness needs authenticity and genuineness; the work must be authentic and rooted in genuine experiences or insights. It isn't about capturing a fleeting trend or crafting something simply fashionable at the moment, but rather about reaching into the depths of human experience to expose something vital and enduring.
This point of view can be particularly used to creative endeavors, where the artist's objective and the intrinsic message hold significant weight in identifying the longevity and continued importance of their work. Nevertheless, it is similarly relevant to viewpoints, clinical discoveries, and social innovations that, when successfully reflecting a deep-seated reality, remain influential and continually revisited for inspiration or assistance.
Lincoln's quote welcomes us to assess the idea that genuinely impactful work is a continuous dialogue between today and the future, continuously offering insight and knowledge across generations. It challenges developers to aim for credibility and universality, guaranteeing their contributions stand up to the test of time.
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