Too long now things divine have been cheaply used And all…
““Too long now things divine have been cheaply used And all the power of heaven, the kindly, spent In trifling waste by cold and cunning Men without thanks, who when he, the Highest, In person tills their field for them, think they know the daylight and the Thunderer, and indeed Their telescope may find them all, may Count and may name every star of heaven. Yet will the Father cover with holy night, That we may last on earth, our too knowing eyes. . . . Never will our Free-ranging power coerce his heaven. From “The Poet’s Vocation” (“Dichterberuf”)””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human ambition often misuses divine gifts, squandering potential in trivial pursuits, while true purpose remains hidden.
In simple terms: People waste great gifts on petty things.
Key Takeaway
Seek deeper purpose beyond superficial achievements.
Themes
hubris
spirituality
purpose
Mood
contemplative
melancholic
Type
philosophical
poetic
When to use this quote
- creative work
- ethical decision making
- spiritual practice
- environmental stewardship
Key Concepts
existentialism
theology
human folly
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “divine power” mean to you?
- How can you align daily actions with higher values?
A Different Perspective
Recognizing true purpose can be unsettling and require sacrifice.