“I think we consider too much the good luck of the early bird and not enough the bad luck of the early worm.”
- January 30, 1882 – April 12, 1945
- American
- Politician
- [Achievements]
- As president of the United States, he promoted economic recovery from the Great Depression with the New Deal policy
- He led the Allied powers to victory in World War II
- [Criticism]
- His hard-line policy toward Japan triggered the attack on Pearl Harbor
- He pushed for the forced internment policy of Japanese Americans due to racist feelings toward the Japanese
- He promoted the Manhattan Project, a plan to develop the atomic bomb
Quote
“I think we consider too much the good luck of the early bird and not enough the bad luck of the early worm.”
Explanation
In this quote, Franklin D. Roosevelt points out the tendency to focus too heavily on the successes or advantages of those who get ahead, symbolized by the “early bird,” while overlooking the difficulties or disadvantages faced by others who may be in a less fortunate position, like the “early worm.” Roosevelt is drawing attention to the idea that the focus on those who succeed early in life, or in business, politics, or other pursuits, often ignores the fact that not everyone starts from the same place or has the same opportunities. The “early worm,” metaphorically, represents those who may be at a disadvantage or vulnerable, despite their own early efforts.
This statement reflects Roosevelt’s concern with economic inequality and his belief that success should not be solely attributed to individual effort without recognizing the broader systemic factors that impact people’s circumstances. For example, his New Deal policies aimed at providing opportunities for all Americans, particularly those who were struggling during the Great Depression, by addressing poverty, unemployment, and social welfare. Roosevelt’s point is that while some individuals may benefit from early advantages, others are held back by forces beyond their control, and those disparities must be acknowledged and addressed in any fair system.
In today’s context, this quote is a reminder to consider the full scope of privilege, inequality, and systemic challenges when evaluating success. It speaks to the importance of recognizing not only the stories of success but also the challenges faced by those who may not have the same starting point in life. Whether in discussions about education, income inequality, or social mobility, Roosevelt’s words urge us to look beyond the successes of the privileged few and consider how external factors and circumstances shape people’s opportunities.
