"The world must be all fucked up when men travel first class and literature goes as freight"

Here's the deal. The core idea here is pretty simple: we're living in a world where our priorities are all out of whack. Think about it. We place so much value on luxury and status—like men traveling first class—while something as enriching and vital as literature is treated like it doesn't matter, getting shoved into the metaphorical freight section. It's a jab at our materialistic society where the superficial often trumps the intellectual.

So why was this said? Well, it’s a critique that's been around for a long time, probably since people realized that money and status weren't everything. It’s likely that this sentiment comes from someone who's noticed how our culture often elevates wealth and comfort above knowledge and art. Literature, which can open minds, change perspectives, and even shape societies, is being neglected in favor of the latest gadget, designer clothes, or a first-class ticket.

Let's make it real. Imagine you're at a busy airport. There’s a businessman in a tailored suit, sipping champagne as he waits to board first class. Meanwhile, a young writer, clutching the manuscript that could be the next great novel, is struggling with a bulky suitcase, navigating through the crowded terminal. The businessman’s journey will be smooth and luxurious, his comfort a priority. The writer’s journey? It’s fraught with challenges, and their work—potentially a piece of literature that could inspire and enlighten—gets treated like any other checked baggage. The juxtaposition is striking, isn’t it?

Want to apply this wisdom? Start by re-evaluating what you value. The next time you’re tempted to splurge on something flashy, consider investing in something meaningful instead. Pick up a book, support a local author, or even start writing your own thoughts down. Engage with literature; it’s a way to broaden your horizons. Remember that while luxury items offer temporary pleasure, knowledge and intellectual growth provide lasting fulfillment.

To make it even clearer, let's paint a picture. Imagine Jane, a high-school teacher who’s passionate about literature. She notices that her students are more interested in the latest trends and tech than in the books she assigns. Rather than just lamenting this, she decides to shake things up. She starts a book club, but with a twist. They meet in a cozy, café-like setting with comfy chairs and hot chocolate. They talk about the stories, relate them to real-life situations, and even act out scenes. The students start to see the value in literature because Jane made it feel special, not just another assignment. They start recommending books to each other and even write their own stories. In a small, yet profound way, Jane shifts their priorities, showing them that while first-class travel is nice, the journey through a good book can be just as enriching.

In essence, it’s about reshaping what we see as valuable. It’s easy to get caught up in the race for status and comfort, but remembering to value and prioritize literature can lead us to a richer, more thoughtful existence. So next time you’re faced with a choice, think about what will fill your mind and soul, not just your seat.