Previous

Until an independence is declared the continent will feel itself like a man who continues putting off some unpleasant business from day to day, yet knows it must be done, hates to set about it, wishes it over, and is continually haunted with the thoughts of its necessity.

With this powerful image, Paine concludes Common Sense. This image encapsulates Paine's central point throughout the pamphlet that America must ultimately become independent of Britain. Paine maintains that, inevitably, the colonies will cease to be under British rule, and that the only question that remains is when the colonies are to become free. Paine believes that the time for action is now rather than later, and therefore exhorts his fellow Americans to rise to action and do what he believes he has shown must be done.

Previous section Important Quotes Explained Page 3

Popular pages: Common Sense

Take a Study Break