Meaning: Martha Gellhorn, an American novelist, travel writer, and journalist, made this thought-provoking statement about citizenship. The quote emphasizes the responsibility of citizens to form their own informed opinions and to stand by them. Gellhorn's words highlight the active and demanding nature of citizenship, suggesting that it is not merely a passive status, but rather a challenging occupation that requires individuals to engage critically with the world around them.

Gellhorn's assertion that citizenship is a "tough occupation" reflects the idea that being an engaged and responsible member of society is not easy. It requires a willingness to confront complex issues, seek out information, and think critically about one's beliefs and values. This challenges the notion that citizenship is simply a legal or bureaucratic status, and instead frames it as an ongoing and active role that individuals must consciously fulfill.

The quote also emphasizes the importance of forming informed opinions. Gellhorn suggests that citizens have a duty to actively seek out knowledge and information in order to develop a well-rounded understanding of the world. This aligns with the idea that an informed citizenry is essential for the functioning of a healthy democracy, as it enables individuals to participate in public discourse and make meaningful contributions to society.

Furthermore, Gellhorn's assertion that citizens must "stand by" their opinions underscores the importance of conviction and integrity in the realm of citizenship. It implies that citizens should not only form opinions, but also be prepared to defend and uphold them, even in the face of opposition or adversity. This speaks to the idea of personal accountability and the need for individuals to take ownership of their beliefs and values.

In a broader sense, Gellhorn's quote can be seen as a call to action for individuals to actively engage with the world around them and to take their roles as citizens seriously. It challenges the notion of passive citizenship, urging individuals to be proactive in shaping their communities and contributing to the collective well-being of society.

Gellhorn's background as a journalist and war correspondent adds weight to her words, as she witnessed firsthand the impact of informed and engaged citizenship in various global contexts. Her experiences may have influenced her perspective on the responsibilities of citizenship, as she saw the tangible effects of individuals standing by their informed opinions in the face of adversity and conflict.

Overall, Martha Gellhorn's quote serves as a powerful reminder of the active and demanding nature of citizenship. It prompts individuals to reflect on the role they play in shaping their communities and to consider the importance of forming informed opinions and standing by them. In a world where civic engagement and critical thinking are essential, Gellhorn's words resonate as a timely and enduring call to action for responsible citizenship.