A cold and searching wind drives away all contagion, and…
“A cold and searching wind drives away all contagion, and nothing can withstand it but what has a virtue in it, and accordingly, whatever we meet with in cold and bleak places, as the tops of mountains, we respect for a sort of sturdy innocence, a Puritan toughness. All things beside seem to be called in for shelter, and what stays out must be part of the original frame of the universe, and of such valor as God himself.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Nature's harshness reveals the essential strength and purity of things that endure, suggesting that true virtue withstands adversity while the rest seeks refuge.
In simple terms: Harsh environments expose true virtue.
Key Takeaway
Adversity tests authenticity.
Themes
nature
virtue
resilience
spirituality
puritanism
Mood
awe
reverence
determination
Type
philosophical
nature-inspired
spiritual
When to use this quote
- mountain climbing
- winter survival
- philosophical contemplation
- spiritual reflection
Key Concepts
strength
purity
adversity
shelter
Practical Applications
- writing about nature
- teaching resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- What does it mean to be 'sturdy innocence' in modern life?
- How can we identify what is truly essential versus what seeks shelter?