If I am to be a thoroughfare, I prefer that it be of the…
“If I am to be a thoroughfare, I prefer that it be of the mountain brooks, the Parnassian streams, and not the town sewers. There is inspiration, that gossip which comes to the ear of the attentive mind from the courts of heaven. There is the profane and stale revelation of the barroom and the police court. The same ear is fitted to receive both communications. Only the character of the hearer determines to which it shall be open, and to which closed.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The mind can receive both lofty inspiration and mundane gossip; openness depends on the listener's character.
In simple terms: Mind's openness shapes what we hear.
Key Takeaway
Develop discernment to seek higher ideas while staying grounded.
Themes
perception
choice
inspiration
mundane
Mood
contemplative
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- reading
- conversation
- media consumption
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What influences your openness to new ideas?
- How can you balance high ideals with everyday reality?
A Different Perspective
Risk of dismissing valuable everyday insights.