Skip to content

The Iyf so short, the craft so long to lerne, Thassay so…

“The Iyf so short, the craft so long to lerne, Thassay so hard, so sharp the conquenng. . . . . For out of olde feldes, as men seith, Cometh al this newe corn fro yeer to yere; And out of olde bokes, in good feith, Cometh al this newe science that men lere.” quote by Geoffrey Chaucer
Download Open image
“The Iyf so short, the craft so long to lerne, Thassay so hard, so sharp the conquenng. . . . . For out of olde feldes, as men seith, Cometh al this newe corn fro yeer to yere; And out of olde bokes, in good feith, Cometh al this newe science that men lere.”

Geoffrey Chaucer

About This Quote

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

Old knowledge gives way to new discoveries, as ancient fields yield fresh crops and books.

In simple terms: Old ideas produce new insights.

Key Takeaway

Embrace learning from the past.

Themes

knowledge growth history

Mood

reflective inquisitive

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic research
  • creative writing
  • historical study

Key Concepts

renewal scholarship

Questions to Reflect On

  • What old teachings can you apply today?
  • How do you discern valuable tradition?
A Different Perspective

May over‑romanticize past wisdom.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Geoffrey Chaucer

Explore all 217 Geoffrey Chaucer quotes

More Als quotes

Browse all 894 Als quotes