Hugh Carey Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is braver five minutes longer."

This quote suggests that heroes are not inherently more courageous or fearless than ordinary individuals; instead, they display courage for a slightly extended period of time when the situation calls for it. In other words, heroes demonstrate resilience and persistence in the face of adversity. The five minutes longer refers to their ability to continue pushing forward despite the challenges they encounter, making them extraordinary not because they are immune to fear or doubt, but because they choose to act in the service of others even when it is difficult.

"We're not just fighting for New York here, we're fighting for the American Dream, and so it's time to make a stand."

This quote highlights the belief that the "American Dream" is not confined within geographical boundaries but is representative of an aspirational, nationwide ethos. For New York, specifically, the struggle to maintain its unique identity and opportunities symbolizes the struggle for the preservation of the American Dream - a set of ideals centering around upward mobility, equality, and prosperity through hard work and determination. In essence, Carey encourages a collective stand in defense of these core values that are synonymous with the American Dream.

"New York is not just a city, it's a world. It's a world that's small enough to walk across but big enough to contain everything."

This quote highlights New York City's unique blend of compactness and vast diversity. It suggests that despite its relatively small geographical size, the city encompasses a multitude of cultures, experiences, opportunities, and perspectives, making it feel like a world in itself. In essence, Hugh Carey is emphasizing the rich tapestry of life, commerce, art, and ideas found within New York City's boundaries.

"We are the storytellers of our time, the purveyors of dreams and creators of hope. We must never lose the power to move people with the magic of our words."

This quote emphasizes the profound influence that storytelling has on society, highlighting the role of communicators as weavers of narratives, sparking emotions and instilling hope in people. It underscores the importance of maintaining a powerful connection with words, using them to inspire, motivate, and captivate audiences during our time. In essence, the quote serves as a call to action for all those who wield the power of words - journalists, writers, orators, poets, and everyday speakers - to continue utilizing their craft to enchant, move, and better humanity.

"The arts are not a frill, an accessory or an indulgence. The arts are the soul of a nation. They tell its story, preserve its history, celebrate its achievements, and create its dreams."

This quote emphasizes the essential role of art in defining and preserving a nation's identity, history, and aspirations. Art serves not as a luxury or extra but as a fundamental expression of a culture's soul. It narrates the story, safeguards its past, honors its achievements, and embodies its collective dreams, serving as a beacon for future generations.