People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it.

Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre (1847), ch. 12

What it means

Jane, restless at Thornfield, says calm alone does not satisfy people. Everyone needs something to do and somewhere to push. If your life lacks it, create it.

The source

"People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it." Charlotte Brontë said it in Jane Eyre (1847), ch. 12. Written in English: Jane Eyre, 1847.

"It is in vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquillity: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it."

Original English (Jane Eyre, 1847), Jane Eyre (1847), ch. 12. Text read at gutenberg.org.

Who said it

Charlotte Brontë (1816–1855). English novelist from Yorkshire. Jane Eyre (1847) follows an orphan governess who will not give up her freedom or her principles.

Questions

What does "People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it." mean?: Jane, restless at Thornfield, says calm alone does not satisfy people. Everyone needs something to do and somewhere to push. If your life lacks it, create it.
Who said "People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it."?: Charlotte Brontë (1816–1855). Source: Jane Eyre (1847), ch. 12.
What is the original wording?: It is in vain to say human beings ought to be satisfied with tranquillity: they must have action; and they will make it if they cannot find it (Original English (Jane Eyre, 1847)). Written in English: Jane Eyre, 1847.
Is "People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it." on a shirt?: Yes. We print it to order on our tees in 7 illustrated looks, from $44, with free US shipping.

Cite this line

"People must have action. If they can't find it, they make it." (Charlotte Brontë, Jane Eyre (1847), ch. 12, trans. Original English (Jane Eyre, 1847)). https://spartansurfers.com/quotes/people-must-have-action-if-they-cant-find