In Susan Orlean's observation, she highlights a unique aspect of voting in small towns where each individual vote carries significant weight. Unlike large cities with numerous voters, smaller communities have fewer people participating in elections, making it possible for just a handful of votes to determine the outcome of local races.
The deeper meaning behind this quote is that democracy functions on a more personal and impactful level in rural or small-town settings compared to urban areas. In these environments, individual participation can be crucial because even a single vote can sway election results. This underscores how civic engagement and voter turnout are vital for democratic processes to function effectively at the grassroots level. It also emphasizes the importance of understanding that every vote has potential power, especially in communities where fewer people are involved.
Susan Orlean is an acclaimed American author and journalist known for her engaging storytelling and deep exploration of subjects through a personal lens. She has written numerous books and articles, including "The Orchid Thief," which inspired the film "Adaptation." Her work often reflects on how smaller, more localized experiences shape broader societal narratives.
