J.K. Rowling Speaks at Harvard Commencement

Graduation is a moment filled with mixed emotions, and the speaker reflects on their own experience of fear before addressing graduates. They humorously recall how little they remembered from their commencement speech years ago, which liberates them to speak freely without worrying about influencing career choices. The focus shifts to two key lessons: the benefits of failure and the importance of imagination in life beyond academia. The speaker shares personal anecdotes about balancing ambition against parental expectations while pursuing an education that ultimately led them away from practicality towards passion for literature.

Embracing Responsibility Amidst Fear Taking responsibility for one's life is crucial, and while parents may hope their children avoid poverty due to its hardships, the fear of failure often looms larger. Graduating from a prestigious institution like Harvard can create an illusion of success that masks deeper fears about not achieving personal goals. The speaker reflects on their own experiences with failure after graduation—an ended marriage and financial struggles—which led them to confront harsh realities.

The Transformative Power of Failure Failure serves as a catalyst for growth by stripping away illusions and forcing individuals to focus on what truly matters in life. It fosters resilience, revealing inner strength and valuable relationships forged through adversity. True happiness comes from understanding that life's worth isn't measured solely by achievements or possessions but rather through personal development gained during challenging times.

Imagination is a powerful tool that allows us to empathize with others and envision possibilities beyond our current reality. It played a crucial role in rebuilding my life, but its significance extends far beyond personal experiences; it fuels innovation and creativity. My time at Amnesty International exposed me to the harsh realities faced by individuals under oppressive regimes, deepening my understanding of human suffering. Witnessing the resilience of those who endured unimaginable pain taught me about compassion and humility.

Living under a regime that seizes and executes individuals highlights the privilege of democratic governance, where legal rights are upheld. Witnessing human cruelty fosters nightmares but also reveals profound goodness through organizations like Amnesty International, which mobilize people to advocate for those suffering injustice. Empathy enables collective action that saves lives; ordinary citizens unite to help strangers in need. Unlike other creatures, humans possess the unique ability to empathize without direct experience—this power can be used positively or negatively depending on individual choices about awareness and engagement with others' suffering.

The power of imagination can lead to better futures, and lasting friendships formed during significant life moments are invaluable. The speaker reflects on lifelong bonds created with friends from graduation, who have supported each other through challenges. These relationships are cherished not only for their emotional support but also for shared memories that hold unique significance. Emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity in life experiences, a quote from Seneca highlights that what truly matters is how good our lives are rather than their length.