“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph. What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly; it is dearness only that gives everything its value. Heaven knows how to put a proper price upon its goods; and it would be strange indeed, if so celestial and article as Freedom should not be highly rated.”
These powerful words, penned by Thomas Paine in 1776, capture a timeless truth about struggle and commitment. They formed the opening of The American Crisis, a series of pamphlets that fueled the spirit of a fledgling revolution. Paine wrote not as a distant observer but as a passionate participant in the fight for American independence. His message was a direct appeal to the hearts and minds of soldiers and citizens alike. Consequently, his words provided crucial encouragement during one of the darkest moments of the war. This exploration delves into the historical context, profound meaning, and enduring relevance of this iconic quote.
The Crisis That Forged an Army
To truly grasp the weight of Paine’s words, we must understand the moment he wrote them. In the winter of 1776, the American Revolution was on the verge of collapse. General George Washington’s Continental Army had suffered a series of devastating defeats around New York. Driven back across New Jersey, the exhausted and poorly supplied soldiers faced freezing temperatures and dwindling hope. Moreover, enlistments were set to expire, and many men simply wanted to go home. Morale had hit rock bottom. The promise of independence seemed like a fading dream.
Paine, who was embedded with the army, witnessed this despair firsthand. Source He began writing the first pamphlet of The American Crisis series to counteract the crushing negativity. His goal was to reignite the revolutionary fire and remind everyone what they were fighting for. The pamphlet was published on December 19, 1776. It spread rapidly through the colonies. Indeed, its impact was so immediate and profound that General Washington ordered it read aloud to his troops before they crossed the Delaware River for a surprise attack. . This act helped galvanize the soldiers for their pivotal victory at Trenton, a turning point in the war.
Unpacking the “Summer Soldier and Sunshine Patriot”
Paine’s most memorable phrases are his descriptions of wavering supporters. The “summer soldier” and the “sunshine patriot” are powerful metaphors for conditional commitment. These individuals support a cause only when it is easy or convenient. They cheer during parades in the summer sun but vanish at the first sign of winter’s chill. In this crisis, Paine states, they will “shrink from the service of their country.” He masterfully draws a line between those with fleeting enthusiasm and those with genuine conviction.
In contrast, he elevates the person who “stands it now.” This is the true patriot. This individual endures the hardship, faces the fear, and remains steadfast when others flee. Paine argues that this person alone deserves the “love and thanks of man and woman.” By creating this stark contrast, he forces the reader to choose which side they are on. It is a call to self-reflection and a challenge to rise above comfort and convenience. This idea transcends the battlefield. It applies to any significant challenge that tests a person’s dedication, from starting a business to fighting for social justice.
The Value of a Hard-Won Victory
The quote continues by framing the struggle in epic terms. Paine declares, “Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered.” This simile does two things brilliantly. First, it equates British rule with an ultimate evil, elevating the American cause to a moral crusade. Second, it sets a realistic expectation: this fight will be incredibly difficult. However, Paine immediately offers a powerful consolation. He notes that “the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.” This simple, profound idea provides a powerful motivation to persevere. The immense difficulty of the task only increases the value of the eventual victory.
He develops this theme further, stating, “What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly.” People do not value things they get without effort. It is the cost, the sacrifice, and the struggle—the “dearness”—that gives something its true worth. Paine concludes this thought by applying it to the ultimate prize: Freedom. He suggests it would be strange if such a “celestial” concept did not come at a high price. This logic reframes suffering not as a sign of failure but as a necessary payment for a priceless reward. Therefore, every hardship endured adds to the ultimate value of liberty.
Why Paine’s Words Still Resonate
Centuries after they were written, Thomas Paine’s words retain their power. They speak to the universal human experience of facing adversity for a cause greater than oneself. The quote serves as a timeless reminder that true commitment is measured not in times of ease but in moments of crisis. Its message inspires resilience in anyone facing personal, professional, or societal challenges. It challenges us to look beyond temporary discomfort and focus on the long-term value of our goals.
Furthermore, the distinction between the “sunshine patriot” and the dedicated loyalist remains a relevant concept in modern politics and social movements. It prompts us to question the depth of our own convictions. Are we willing to stand for our beliefs when the cost is high? In summary, Paine’s essay is more than a historical document. It is a foundational text on the nature of courage, perseverance, and the intrinsic link between struggle and value. His words remind us that the things worth having are almost always worth fighting for, no matter how difficult the battle.