Question

Explain quote means ? "In Georgia where children work day and night in the cotton mills they have just passed a bill to protect song birds. What about the little children from whom all song is gone?" Mother Jones

Answer 1

This quote by Mother Jones highlights a stark contrast and criticism of the priorities of society. Mother Jones was a prominent labor and community organizer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for advocating workers' rights and child labor laws.

The quote draws attention to the irony and injustice of a situation in Georgia, where children were working long hours in cotton mills under harsh conditions. Despite this, the state had recently passed a bill to protect songbirds, showing concern for the well-being of animals while neglecting the welfare of the young workers.

Mother Jones uses the metaphor of "songbirds" to symbolize the innocence, joy, and potential of children. By asking, "What about the little children from whom all song is gone?", she highlights the loss of childhood and the exploitation of children forced into labor. The contrast between protecting birds and disregarding the plight of child laborers underscores the skewed priorities and lack of empathy in society.

Through this quote, Mother Jones aims to raise awareness about the mistreatment of child workers and to challenge society's values and the need for reforms that prioritize the well-being and rights of all individuals, including children.

Answer 2

criticism of the priorities of society and the government in Georgia, USA. The quote draws attention to the fact that while lawmakers in the state have passed a bill to protect songbirds, they have not taken any similar action to protect the children who work in the cotton mills. The quote highlights the hypocrisy of a society that values the lives of animals over the lives of children.

The metaphor "from whom all song is gone" is particularly powerful in this quote. It evokes the image of children who have lost their innocence, childhood, and happiness because of the brutal working conditions they are subjected to. The quote questions the morality of prioritizing the protection of animals over the welfare of children, and suggests that society should reconsider its values and focus on protecting the most vulnerable members of society.