I will keep the law given by God; sanctioned by man. I…
““I will keep the law given by God; sanctioned by man. I will hold to the principles received by me when I was sane, and not mad — as I am now. Laws and principles are not for the times when there is no temptation: they are for such moments as this, when body and soul rise in mutiny against their rigour; stringent are they; inviolate they shall be. If at my individual convenience I might break them, what would be their worth? They have a worth — so I have always believed; and if I cannot believe it now, it is because I am quite insane — quite insane: with my veins running fire, and my heart beating faster than I can count its throbs. Preconceived opinions, foregone determinations, are all I have this hour to stand by: there I plant my foot.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
One declares unwavering commitment to personal principles even when sanity feels compromised, viewing laws as essential anchors against inner chaos.
In simple terms: Stand firm to principles despite inner turmoil.
Key Takeaway
Uphold personal integrity regardless of circumstance.
Themes
integrity
principles
madness
law
Mood
thoughtful
serious
introspective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- Facing moral crises
- dealing with mental strain
- making difficult choices
- maintaining personal codes
Key Concepts
Existential resolve
psychological conflict
ethical steadfastness
Questions to Reflect On
- When should principles be re‑examined?
- Can strict law‑keeping harm personal wellbeing?
A Different Perspective
Rigid adherence may ignore nuanced contexts or compassionate flexibility.