Skip to content

What a dissimilarity we see in walking, swimming, and…

“What a dissimilarity we see in walking, swimming, and flying. And yet it is one and the same motion: it is just that the load- bearing capacity of the earth differs from that of the water, and that that of the water differs from that of the air! Thus we should also learn to fly as thinkers--and…” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
Download Open image
“What a dissimilarity we see in walking, swimming, and flying. And yet it is one and the same motion: it is just that the load- bearing capacity of the earth differs from that of the water, and that that of the water differs from that of the air! Thus we should also learn to fly as thinkers--and not imagine that we are thereby becoming idle dreamers!”

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote contrasts different modes of movement, emphasizing that they share a fundamental motion despite varying environments, and urges thinkers to adopt a soaring mindset without becoming idle dreamers.

In simple terms: Different movements share a core motion; thinkers should aim high without idleness.

Key Takeaway

Embrace active, lofty thinking.

Themes

movement philosophy mindset creativity

Mood

inspired thoughtful

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • learning
  • creative problem solving
  • strategic planning
  • personal development

Key Concepts

physics metaphor human potential

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you apply the concept of “flying” to your thinking?
  • What practical steps prevent idle dreaming?
A Different Perspective

Risk of over‑idealizing without practical grounding.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Friedrich Nietzsche

Explore all 3,486 Friedrich Nietzsche quotes

More Air quotes

Browse all 6,278 Air quotes