"In view of the meaning given to this honor in the community to which I belong, I should abstain from the undeserved prize that has been awarded to me. Do not meet my voluntary refusal with ill will"
- Boris Pasternak
About this Quote
This quote by Boris Pasternak talks to the significance of humbleness and stability. Pasternak is declining an undeserved prize, likely due to the suggesting it keeps in his neighborhood. He is aware of the ramifications of accepting the award and is choosing to avoid it. He is likewise asking that his rejection not be met with ill will, likely due to the fact that he does not wish to anger individuals who granted him the prize. Pasternak's words demonstrate his respect for the community he comes from and his dedication to maintaining its worths. He wants to pass up the recognition of the award in order to stay real to his beliefs and keep the respect of his peers. His words work as a reminder of the importance of humbleness and integrity in any neighborhood.
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"Creating the kind of connections between people that lead to collective civic action, political expression, community dialogue, shared cultural experiences"
