There was originally no path on the ground; when more people walk on it, it becomes a path.

This quote originates from Lu Xun's 1921 short story "Hometown." In the story, it represents the protagonist's complex emotions towards his childhood friend Runtu and profound reflections on social change. As the protagonist sits on a boat leaving his hometown, watching it gradually fade into the distance, he is filled with memories of the past and uncertainty about the future. This line appears at the story's conclusion, following the protagonist's disappointment at reuniting with Runtu, his lament for the changes in his hometown, and his contemplation on life's path.

The deeper meaning of this quote is that nothing exists by predetermined fate, but rather emerges through human practice and collective action. The "path" here represents not only physical roads but also symbolic life paths, social systems, and cultural traditions. It emphasizes human agency and the importance of practice, suggesting that through courage to explore and dare to act, people can create things that previously did not exist. It also implies that social change and progress require collective power - while individual strength may seem small, when combined, it can create tremendous impact.

When Lu Xun created "Hometown," he was serving as a secretary in the Ministry of Education in Beijing while actively participating in the New Culture Movement. He completed this story in January 1921, drawing from his real experience of returning to his Shaoxing hometown in late 1919 to bring his mother north. During this visit, he witnessed firsthand the decay of his hometown, the poverty of farmers, and the changes in his childhood friend Runtu. Runtu had transformed from a lively, lovely rural child into a numb, sluggish middle-aged farmer - this enormous contrast deeply shocked Lu Xun. On the boat leaving his hometown, as he reflected on what he had seen and heard during his visit, contemplating the current state of Chinese rural areas and farmers' destinies, and how to change this situation, he wrote this philosophical quote. It represents both a summary of personal experience and profound reflection on social change.

Since its creation, this quote has had profound influence on modern Chinese history. During the Anti-Japanese War, it was used to inspire people to unite against the enemy; during the Liberation War, it encouraged people to strive for new China's establishment; during the reform and opening-up period, it became a spiritual banner encouraging bold exploration and innovation. This quote has been cited by countless reformers, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and others, becoming an important spiritual force driving Chinese social progress. In education, it has been incorporated into textbooks, influencing generation after generation of students. In international exchanges, it has become an important window to showcase modern Chinese cultural spirit to the world. According to statistics, this quote has been cited over ten thousand times in formal publications, with countless more in online media. Its influence has transcended literature to become an important symbol of modern Chinese culture.

To apply this quote's wisdom in practical life, consider these approaches: First, in work and study, dare to break conventional thinking and courageously try new methods and paths, not being limited by "impossible" concepts; second, when facing difficulties and challenges, recognize that solutions often need exploration through practice rather than waiting for ready-made answers; third, in team collaboration, leverage collective wisdom to create new situations through multi-person cooperation; fourth, in personal growth, courageously step out of comfort zones and develop your life path through continuous trial and practice; fifth, in social participation, actively engage in social innovation and public welfare activities, creating new social value through your actions. Specifically, start with small things around you - try new work methods, participate in community volunteer services, support innovative projects - and embody this quote's spiritual essence through sustained practical action.