Pulling through is what people do around here. There is a kind of bravery in their lives that isnt bravery at all. It is automatic, unflinching, a mix of man and machine, consuming and unquestionable obligation meeting illness move for move in a giant even-steven game of chess an unending round of something that looks like shadowboxing, though between love and death, which is the shadow? Everyone admires us for our courage, says one man. They have no idea what theyre talking about.Courage requires options, the man adds.There are options, says a woman with a thick suede headband. You could give up. You could fall apart.No you cant. Nobody does. Ive never seen it, says the man. Well, not really fall apart.

About This Quote

About Lorrie Moore, Birds of America

Lorrie Moore, Birds of America.

Themes

  • Courage — Facing fear, adversity, and uncertainty with bravery
  • Death — Contemplations on mortality, loss, and the legacy we leave
  • Love — Quotes exploring romantic love, compassion, and human connection

More quotes by Lorrie Moore, Birds of America

Related Quotes