Meaning: The quote "To live anywhere in the world today and be against equality because of race or color is like living in Alaska and being against snow" by William Faulkner is a powerful statement that draws a compelling analogy between opposing racial equality and opposing a natural phenomenon. This quote encapsulates Faulkner's perspective on the absurdity of discrimination based on race or color in contemporary society. In essence, Faulkner is suggesting that opposing racial equality is as illogical as living in a place known for a certain characteristic, such as snow in Alaska, and being against it.

William Faulkner, an American novelist and Nobel Prize laureate, was known for his poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of the human condition, particularly the issues of race and social equality in the American South. Faulkner's works often delved into the deep-rooted prejudices and injustices prevalent in the Southern society of his time, and his writing reflected a keen awareness of the destructive impact of racial discrimination.

In this quote, Faulkner employs the analogy of living in Alaska and being against snow to convey the irrationality of opposing racial equality. Alaska is renowned for its snowy landscapes, and to reside in such a place and reject or oppose snow would be nonsensical. Faulkner's analogy serves to highlight the inherent nature of racial diversity and the futility of attempting to deny or suppress it. Just as snow is an integral part of Alaska's identity, so too is racial diversity an essential component of the global human experience.

The comparison drawn in the quote underscores the universality of the struggle for racial equality. Regardless of geographical location, the fight against racial discrimination is a global issue that transcends borders and cultures. Faulkner's choice of Alaska, a location synonymous with snow, as the setting for his analogy further emphasizes the inherent nature of racial diversity and the futility of attempting to deny or suppress it.

Furthermore, the quote reflects Faulkner's belief in the fundamental right of all individuals to be treated equally, irrespective of their race or color. By equating opposition to racial equality with being against a natural phenomenon, Faulkner emphasizes the inherent and unchangeable nature of racial diversity. His comparison serves as a powerful rebuke to those who perpetuate racial discrimination and inequality, challenging them to recognize the inherent absurdity of their stance.

Faulkner's quote continues to resonate in contemporary society as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice. It serves as a call to action, urging individuals to confront and dismantle the systemic barriers that perpetuate racial discrimination. In a world that is increasingly interconnected and diverse, Faulkner's words compel us to recognize and embrace the richness of human diversity, rather than perpetuating division and inequality based on race or color.

In conclusion, William Faulkner's quote "To live anywhere in the world today and be against equality because of race or color is like living in Alaska and being against snow" encapsulates his powerful perspective on the absurdity of opposing racial equality. Through the analogy of living in Alaska and being against snow, Faulkner emphasizes the inherent and unchangeable nature of racial diversity, challenging individuals to confront the futility of opposing it. This quote serves as a timeless reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the imperative of working towards a more just and inclusive society.