Fighting Injustice With Art and FaithSample

Hannah More understood a critical truth about art: while it can profoundly stir emotions, emotion alone is not enough.

She didn't like to create art simply to evoke emotion. She wanted people to act. For her, if the sentiment generated by a literary work didn't lead to "social action"—like boycotting sugar that was produced by slaves, or pressuring government to change unjust laws—the art was as worthwhile as straw.

For her, true impact came when emotion fueled purposeful action.

Historical Highlight:

More's awareness that emotion alone could not achieve political goals but needed to be paired with bold action in the real world--like writing letters to influencers, signing petitions, sharing the truth from a pulpit or in a theater-- is a helpful example from the history of the impact creativity with faith in action can make.

Her powerful poetry, while evoking deep sympathy, was always aimed at inspiring tangible steps towards ending slavery. She claimed the literary space for serious impact by giving slavery a human face and voice.

Action Point:

When you encounter a story or piece of art that moves you deeply, ask yourself: "What action, however small, can I take in response to this emotion?" Commit to take a specific action today, whether it's learning more, sharing information, or contributing to a cause.