Meaning: The quote, "I am not a prophet in any sense of the word, and I entertain an active and intense dislike of the foregoing mixture of optimism, fatalism, and conservatism," is attributed to Herbert Croly, an American political author and journalist. The quote reflects Croly's rejection of the idea that he should be seen as a prophet or a figure who prescribes the future. It also conveys his aversion to a particular combination of attitudes: optimism, fatalism, and conservatism. This quote encapsulates Croly's stance on his role as a thinker and commentator, as well as his views on the prevailing attitudes of his time.

Herbert Croly was a prominent figure in the Progressive Era, a period of social and political reform in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As one of the co-founders of The New Republic magazine, Croly was known for his influential writings on politics, society, and the role of government. His most famous work, "The Promise of American Life," published in 1909, articulated his vision for a more active and interventionist government that would address social and economic inequalities.

In the context of his broader body of work, the quoted statement can be seen as a reflection of Croly's rejection of being labeled as a prophet or a seer. He was a thinker and commentator who sought to analyze and critique the existing conditions of his time, rather than predict the future. This rejection aligns with his commitment to a more pragmatic and interventionist approach to addressing social and political challenges.

The phrase "foregoing mixture of optimism, fatalism, and conservatism" is particularly noteworthy in the quote. It suggests that Croly was critical of a specific blend of attitudes that he perceived as problematic. Optimism, the belief in positive outcomes and progress, is juxtaposed with fatalism, the acceptance of predetermined outcomes beyond one's control. This juxtaposition reflects a tension between hope for change and resignation to the status quo. The inclusion of conservatism in this mixture further underscores Croly's critique, as conservatism typically emphasizes preserving existing institutions and traditions, often at the expense of progressive change.

Croly's "intense dislike" of this mixture suggests that he was deeply concerned about the impact of these attitudes on society and politics. As a proponent of progressive reform, he likely saw this combination as a barrier to the kind of transformative change he advocated for in his writings. By expressing his aversion to this blend of attitudes, he positioned himself as a critic of complacency and a champion of active engagement in shaping the future.

In conclusion, Herbert Croly's quote encapsulates his rejection of being seen as a prophet and his aversion to a specific combination of attitudes that he perceived as hindrances to progress. It reflects his commitment to critical analysis and pragmatic intervention in the political and social issues of his time. By examining this quote in the context of Croly's broader work and historical significance, we gain insight into his perspective as a thinker and commentator during the Progressive Era.