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On Ponkawtasset, since, we took our way, Down this still…

“On Ponkawtasset, since, we took our way, Down this still stream we took our meadowy way, A poet wise has settled, whose fine ray Doth faintly shine on Concord's twilight day. Like those first stars, whose silver beams on high, Shining more brightly as the day goes by, Most travellers cannot at…” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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““On Ponkawtasset, since, we took our way, Down this still stream we took our meadowy way, A poet wise has settled, whose fine ray Doth faintly shine on Concord's twilight day. Like those first stars, whose silver beams on high, Shining more brightly as the day goes by, Most travellers cannot at first descry, But eyes that wont to range the evening sky, And know celestial lights, do plainly see, And gladly hail them, numbering two or three; For lore that's deep must deeply studied be, As from deep wells men read star-poetry. These stars are never pal'd, though out of sight, But like the sun they shine forever bright; Aye, they are suns, though earth must in its flight Put out its eyes that it may see their light. Who would neglect the least celestial sound, Or faintest light that falls on earthly ground, If he could know it one day would be found That star in Cygnus whither we are bound, And pale our sun with heavenly radiance round?””

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.

Celebrates the enduring brilliance of stars as symbols of hidden knowledge, urging seekers to look beyond the obvious to discover deeper truths.

In simple terms: Seek hidden truths beyond what is obvious.

Key Takeaway

Look beyond surface appearances.

Themes

nature knowledge exploration spirituality

Mood

contemplative poetic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • stargazing
  • study
  • meditation
  • creative writing

Key Concepts

metaphor poetry philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What unseen truths do you overlook?
  • How can you train your mind to notice subtle signs?
A Different Perspective

Focusing only on visible stars may miss subtle insights.

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