Philosophy, for Plato, is a kind of vision, the 'vision of…
“Philosophy, for Plato, is a kind of vision, the 'vision of truth'...Everyone who has done any kind of creative work has experienced, in a greater or less degree, the state of mind in which, after long labour, truth or beauty appears, or seems to appear, in a sudden glory - it may only be about some small matter, or it may be about the universe. I think that most of the best creative work, in art, in science, in literature, and in philosophy, has been a result of just such a moment.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Creative breakthroughs often occur as sudden moments of insight, linking truth or beauty to extensive effort.
In simple terms: Creative insight often follows long work and appears suddenly.
Cultivate patience and openness to insight.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- artistic creation
- scientific discovery
- literary composition
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What conditions foster sudden insight?
- Can you prepare for epiphanies?
Not all breakthroughs are sudden; some develop gradually.