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I should fear the infinite power and inflexible justice of…

“I should fear the infinite power and inflexible justice of the almighty mortal hardly as yet apotheosized, so wholly masculine, with no sister Juno, no Apollo, no Venus, nor Minerva, to intercede for me, thumoi phileousa te, kedomene te.” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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“I should fear the infinite power and inflexible justice of the almighty mortal hardly as yet apotheosized, so wholly masculine, with no sister Juno, no Apollo, no Venus, nor Minerva, to intercede for me, thumoi phileousa te, kedomene te.”

Henry David Thoreau

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 warns against fearing a rigid, all‑powerful authority that lacks compassion and balance.

In simple terms: Fear an inflexible, masculine power.

Key Takeaway

Seek balanced, compassionate authority.

Themes

authority gender mythology power justice

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • religious institutions
  • personal spirituality
  • social movements

Key Concepts

masculine archetype divine justice human limitation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does gender shape our view of authority?
  • Can compassion counteract rigid power?
A Different Perspective

Such power may also inspire resilience and reform, not just fear.

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