Talk:Antoine de Saint Exupéry

"A civilization is built on what is required of men, not on that which is provided for them." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery.

Can this quote be verified, sourced, and if yes, added to the page?

HMiklos

Bad translation

Current entry:

* If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.

Quand tu veux construire un bateau, ne commence pas par rassembler du bois, couper des planches et distribuer du travail, mais reveille au sein des hommes le desir de la mer grande et large.

(Note: The quote is attributed to Saint-Exupéry; it only appears in one distinct American translation of "Citadelle"; it is not referenced in the published originals)

I am not fluent but think this is a terrible translation. The English is unattractive and not in sync with the original. I don't know how one choose the "right" translation. A better version might be like:

If you want to build a ship, don’t begin by gathering wood, cutting the boards, and dividing the work; rather awaken in the men the desire for the vast and endless sea.