A voice said, "Climb." And he said, "How shall I climb?the…
““A voice said, "Climb." And he said, "How shall I climb?the mountains are so steep that I cannot climb." The voice said, "Climb or die." He said, "But how?I see no way up those steep ascents. This that is asked is too hard for me." The voice said, "Climb, or perish, soul and body of theemind and spirit of thee. There is no second chance for any son of man. Climb or die." Then he remembered that he had read in the books of the bravest climbers on the hills of the earth that sometimes they were aware of the presence of a Companion on the mountains who was not one of the earthly party of climbers. And he rememberd a word in the Book of Mountaineers...it heartened him,for it told him that he was created to walk in precarious places, not on the easy levels of life.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage urges confronting impossible challenges with resolve, trusting inner purpose despite fear and difficulty.
In simple terms: Face hard tasks with determination and purpose.
Embrace the climb, no matter how steep.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- mountain climbing
- career obstacles
- personal growth
- spiritual crises
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner voice guides you in adversity?
- How can you find purpose in steep challenges?
Progress may be blocked by external limits or lack of support.