To look at a star by glances—to view it in a side-long…
““To look at a star by glances—to view it in a side-long way, by turning toward it the exterior portions of the retina (more susceptible of feeble impressions of light than the interior), is to behold the star distinctly—is to have the best appreciation of its lustre—a lustre which grows dim just in proportion as we turn our vision fully upon it. A greater number of rays actually fall upon the eye in the latter case, but in the former, there is the more refined capacity for comprehension. By undue profundity we perplex and enfeeble thought; and it is possible to make even Venus herself vanish from the firmament by a scrutiny too sustained, too concentrated, or too direct.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intense focus can diminish appreciation; broader perspective yields richer understanding.
In simple terms: Too much focus blinds insight.
Key Takeaway
Balance focus and breadth.
Themes
perception
focus
appreciation
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- reading
- art criticism
- scientific observation
Key Concepts
Cognitive bias
attention
depth vs. breadth
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you missed details by focusing too narrowly?
- How can you broaden your view?
A Different Perspective
Overanalysis can paralyze decision‑making.