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...for the question is of will, and not, as the insanity…

“...for the question is of will, and not, as the insanity of logic has assumed of power. It is not that the Deity cannot modify his laws, but that we insult him in imagining a possible necessity for modification. In their origin these laws were fashioned to embrace all contingencies which could lie…” quote by Edgar Allan Poe
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“...for the question is of will, and not, as the insanity of logic has assumed of power. It is not that the Deity cannot modify his laws, but that we insult him in imagining a possible necessity for modification. In their origin these laws were fashioned to embrace all contingencies which could lie in the future. With God all is Now.”

Edgar Allan Poe

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 argues that will, not logic, governs power, and that divine laws are immutable, encompassing all possibilities.

In simple terms: Will, not logic, defines power; divine laws are unchangeable.

Key Takeaway

Recognize limits of logic in power.

Themes

philosophy theology power dynamics

Mood

pondering serious

Type

philosophical literary

When to use this quote

  • political theory
  • ethical debates
  • personal decision‑making
  • spiritual reflection

Key Concepts

metaphysics determinism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does will interact with divine law?
  • Can logic ever fully capture power?
A Different Perspective

Human agency may still influence outcomes.

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