"The worst cynicism: a belief in luck"

This quote by Joyce Carol Oates speaks with the idea that believing in luck is a form of cynicism. It indicates that luck is a false hope, which depending on it suggests pessimism. It recommends that instead of believing in luck, we need to take duty for our own actions and outcomes. It indicates that we should make every effort to make our own luck by taking effort and striving. It also indicates that luck is not something that can be relied upon, which it is better to focus on our own efforts and capabilities. Eventually, this quote is a reminder that we need to not rely on luck, however instead take obligation for our own lives and results.