"To nourish children and raise them against odds is in any time, any place, is more valuable than to fix bolts in cars or design nuclear weapons"

Marilyn French's quote underscores the extensive importance and value of supporting kids, emphasizing that the role of caregiving and upbringing transcends any age or geographical boundary. Her declaration highlights the universal and ageless difficulty of raising kids, which features intrinsic difficulties and "chances", suggesting that this task requires strength, dedication, and perseverance. In this context, "against odds" may describe a wide variety of obstacles-- financial, social, ecological, or political-- that parents and guardians must browse to make sure the well-being and growth of their kids.

French contrasts this essential societal function with the tasks of fixing bolts in cars or designing nuclear weapons. In doing so, she recommends that while these technical and engineering feats are considerable in their own right, they do not carry the very same intrinsic human worth as nurturing the next generation. Fixing bolts and designing weapons are often connected with economic development, industrialization, and even destruction, respectively, whereas raising children is straight linked to the continuity and improvement of mankind.

Additionally, French's words can be translated as a critique of how society frequently undervalues caregiving roles, which are mainly inhabited by women and are usually overdue or underpaid. By asserting the remarkable value of nurturing children, she advocates for a reevaluation of what we prioritize and reward in society. In essence, this quote invites reflection on what we collectively view as valuable work, prompting recognition of the emotional and social labor associated with child-rearing.

Ultimately, French argues for the enduring significance of nurturing the young as fundamental to human survival and development. Caregiving shapes future generations, instilling worths of compassion, empathy, and cooperation-- qualities necessary for a harmonious and progressive society. Thus, her message is a call to honor and support those engaged in the important job of raising children, acknowledging it as work of profound and unequaled significance.