It is not worth the while to go round the world to count…
“It is not worth the while to go round the world to count the cats in Zanzibar. Yet do this even till you can do better, and you may perhaps find some "Symmes' Hole" by which to get at the inside at last.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Obsessing over trivial details distracts from seeking deeper understanding; persistence may reveal hidden pathways.
In simple terms: Focus on meaningful pursuits, not petty counts.
Key Takeaway
Keep seeking deeper insights.
Themes
philosophy
exploration
patience
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
reflective
philosophical
When to use this quote
- research
- personal growth
- problem solving
Key Concepts
Existentialism
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- What deeper insight might you be missing?
- How can you balance detail with big-picture thinking?
A Different Perspective
Too much focus on minutiae can stall progress.