Meaning: This quote by Lu Hsun, a prominent Chinese writer, encapsulates the essence of hope by drawing a metaphor between hope and roads. The quote suggests that hope is not a tangible entity that can be definitively proven to exist or not exist, but rather it is a concept that is shaped and formed by human actions and beliefs. It compares hope to the creation of roads on the earth, emphasizing that just as roads are created through the collective movement of people, hope is formed through the collective aspirations and efforts of individuals.

Lu Hsun's analogy of hope to roads across the earth conveys the idea that hope is a product of human endeavor and perseverance. The comparison to roads implies that hope is not a static or predetermined phenomenon, but rather a dynamic and evolving force that is shaped by human experiences and actions. Roads are not inherent to the earth, but are constructed by the repeated passage of people. Similarly, hope is not an inherent quality of the world, but is built and sustained by the collective optimism and determination of individuals.

Furthermore, Lu Hsun's quote suggests that the existence of hope is not absolute or fixed. It cannot be definitively proven or disproven, much like the existence of roads on the earth. Instead, hope is a concept that is shaped and given meaning by the thoughts and actions of individuals. The quote implies that hope is a subjective experience, influenced by the perspectives and attitudes of people. It is not something that can be quantified or measured, but rather it is a deeply personal and emotional phenomenon.

The analogy of hope to roads also speaks to the transformative power of human agency. Roads are created through the deliberate efforts of individuals coming together to carve a path through the landscape. Similarly, hope is nurtured and sustained through the collective resilience and determination of people facing challenges and uncertainties. The quote underscores the idea that hope is not passive or static, but rather it is a force that is shaped and reinforced by the actions and choices of individuals.

In conclusion, Lu Hsun's quote eloquently captures the elusive nature of hope by likening it to the creation of roads on the earth. The analogy underscores the idea that hope is not a fixed or tangible entity, but rather a dynamic and evolving force that is shaped by human experiences and actions. It emphasizes the transformative power of human agency in nurturing and sustaining hope, and suggests that hope is a deeply personal and subjective phenomenon. Lu Hsun's insightful comparison offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of hope and its significance in the human experience.