It is an old story, that men sell themselves to the…
““It is an old story, that men sell themselves to the tempter, and sign a bond with their blood, because it is only to take effect at a distant day; then rush on to snatch the cup their souls thirst after with an impulse not the less savage because there is a dark shadow beside them forevermore. There is no short cut, no patent tram-road to wisdom: after all the centuries of invention, the soul's path lies through the thorny wilderness which must be still trodden in solitude, with bleeding feet, with sobs for help, as it was trodden by them of old time.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quest for wisdom is a solitary, painful journey through hardship, with no shortcuts; true insight requires enduring struggle and isolation.
In simple terms: Wisdom demands solitary struggle.
Key Takeaway
Embrace hardship as part of learning.
Themes
wisdom
solitude
sacrifice
spiritual quest
perseverance
Mood
solemn
inspirational
Type
philosophical
maxim
When to use this quote
- spiritual retreat
- academic research
- creative process
Key Concepts
inner pilgrimage
self‑discipline
Practical Applications
- mentorship programs
- rituals of reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do shortcuts feel tempting in personal growth?
- How does solitude shape insight?