The strong and strange thing—that which moves on its way…
““The strong and strange thing—that which moves on its way as do birth and death, and the rising and setting of the sun—had begun to move in them. It was no new and rare thing, but an ancient and common one—as common and ancient as death and birth themselves; and part of the law as they are. As it comes to royal persons to whom one makes obeisance at their mere passing by, as it comes to scullery maids in royal kitchens, and grooms in royal stables, as it comes to ladies-in-waiting and the women who serve them, so it had come to these two who had been drawn near to each other from the opposite sides of the earth, and each started at the touch of it, and withdrew a pace in bewilderment, and some fear.””
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 describes an ancient, universal force that moves all people, from royalty to servants, linking them through birth, death, and the sun’s cycle, causing awe and fear.
In simple terms: A timeless force connects everyone, evoking wonder and fear.
Key Takeaway
Recognize shared humanity across roles.
Themes
nature
universality
humanity
spirituality
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- personal reflection
- creative writing
- teaching philosophy
Key Concepts
cosmic order
shared destiny
life cycles
Questions to Reflect On
- What does this universal force mean for daily life?
- How can recognizing shared destiny affect social interactions?
A Different Perspective
The abstract language may obscure practical relevance.