"The human race is a race of cowards; and I am not only marching in that procession but carrying a banner"

Mark Twain's quote is a commentary on the human condition. He is saying that human beings are generally afraid, which he is no exception. He is not only part of the afraid procession, however he is also leading it, carrying a banner. This implies that he understands his own cowardice and is not scared to confess. He is also recommending that cowardice is a trait that is shared by all humans, and that it is something that we must all understand. By acknowledging his own cowardice, Twain is motivating others to do the very same and to take duty for their own actions. He is likewise suggesting that we ought to strive to be brave and to conquer our fears. Ultimately, Twain's quote is a pointer that we should all aim to be brave and to take obligation for our own actions.