Plot summary, “The Impossible Will Take a Little While” by Paul Loeb in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Impossible Will Take a Little While" is a book edited by Paul Rogat Loeb, originally published in 2004. The book is a compilation of essays, stories, and speeches by various authors, activists, and artists who share their perspectives on hope, social change, and the power of individuals to make a difference.
The title of the book, "The Impossible Will Take a Little While," is taken from a line by American labor activist Bill Haywood: "The long fight to save ourselves from ourselves is the struggle of our time. The battlefront is everywhere: within ourselves, our bodies, our minds, our spirits; between us and our friends or families; between us and those who would call themselves our leaders or owners; between us and those who see us as less than human; between those who would destroy the earth and those who would protect it, and between us and the vast armies of the contented who live as if there were no battlefront."
The contributors to the book include renowned figures such as Nelson Mandela, Vaclav Havel, Alice Walker, Desmond Tutu, and many others. Each essay or story offers a unique perspective on activism, social justice, and personal transformation. The book explores themes such as hope, resilience, the role of art and creativity in social change, and the importance of taking small steps towards creating a more just and compassionate world.
"The Impossible Will Take a Little While" encourages readers to maintain a sense of hope and engagement in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. It celebrates the power of individual actions and collective movements in bringing about positive change. The book acknowledges the difficulties and setbacks that arise along the path of social change but emphasizes the importance of persistence and the cumulative impact of small, meaningful actions.
Paul Rogat Loeb, as the editor, weaves together the contributions into a cohesive and inspiring collection that invites readers to reflect on their own roles in making the world a better place. His intention is to inspire and motivate readers to become active participants in shaping a more just and compassionate society.