This quote, "When a soldier is hit by a cannonball, rags are as becoming as purple," is a poignant metaphor for the equality of all individuals in times of crisis or suffering. The reference to ‘purple’ is a symbol of power, wealth, and royalty, and ‘rags’ represent poverty or the common man. The ‘cannonball’ symbolizes a crisis or a severe hardship that doesn’t discriminate between the rich and the poor, the powerful and the powerless.
In essence, Thoreau is saying that in the face of adversity, our social status, wealth or power don’t matter. Everyone is equally vulnerable, and everyone’s suffering is the same. A cannonball doesn’t care if it hits a king or a common soldier; the impact is equally devastating. In such a situation, the king’s royal purple robes are no more beneficial or protective than the soldier’s rags. This metaphor extends to the idea that in the grand scheme of things, our material possessions and social standing are trivial and transient.
In today’s world, this quote can be applied to the shared human experience during global crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The virus does not discriminate based on wealth, status, or power. Everyone, regardless of their social standing, is susceptible. In such times, our shared vulnerability reminds us of our common humanity and the futility of material wealth and social status.
In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a reminder to focus on what truly matters in life. It encourages us to value our shared humanity over material wealth or social status. It also highlights the importance of resilience, compassion, and solidarity in times of crisis. It’s a call to remember that we are all equal in the face of adversity, and that our actions and attitudes during such times define us more than our social standing or wealth.
