This Is Water, David Foster Wallace
Is this too cheesy, too idealistic for 2026? Is this tired and unreasonable in our weary, AI-flattened, profit-driven world today? I don't know. Maybe. But I really hope that the sentiments expressed here in this iconic commencement speech, from a brilliant man who fought demons of his own, can still make sense today. It's been a while since this was everywhere on the Internet (Tumblr perhaps?); dropping it here for a new generation.
4 months ago
Comments
Sign up to leave a comment.
Across Rec League
This Is Water
Sam
“When I am having a BAD DAY and am struggling with civility, I re-read this classic commencement address by David Foster Wallace. I read this to my students each spring as well, because I think it's a powerful reminder to get our of our own heads, that we make choices in how we think at every single one of life's junctures, large and small. We can choose to be less cruel, we can choose to consider”
Ginny Branch
“I try and remember this famous DFW commencement speech every time I feel grumpy in Atlanta traffic or when I see a parent lose their cool. This speech is about compassion and empathy but not in a lecture-y way. Just as a reminder to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, even when it’s hard to.”
Follow Christine C
By submitting, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy