“I don't believe there is a powerful and mysterious 'popular will', a common will that expresses itself inexorably in spite of repression.”

Simplified Meaning:

The quote talks about the idea that there isn’t a magical or unstoppable force called "popular will" that always shows itself no matter what. Imagine a group of people living in a country where the government doesn't let them speak freely or protest. Some might say that even if they are silenced, the true wishes of the people will always come out and lead to change. But this quote is saying that’s not necessarily true. Take, for example, a regime that censors the media and punishes those who dissent. The people in that situation might not be able to express their true desires because they are scared of being punished. The quote suggests that it isn't just up to some natural force of public opinion to make change happen; people need to take action themselves. So, in real life, if you want something to change and you're facing obstacles or opposition, you can't just sit back and wait for the common wishes of the people to become reality. You need to find ways to work around the obstacles, gather support, and actively fight for what you believe in. This makes it clear that change requires effort and action, not just hope.