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But I must be content with only one more and a concluding…

“But I must be content with only one more and a concluding illustration; a remarkable and most significant one, by which you will not fail to see, that not only is the most marvellous event in this book corroborated by plain facts of the present day, but that these marvels (like all marvels) are…” quote by Herman Melville
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““But I must be content with only one more and a concluding illustration; a remarkable and most significant one, by which you will not fail to see, that not only is the most marvellous event in this book corroborated by plain facts of the present day, but that these marvels (like all marvels) are mere repetitions of the ages; so that for the millionth time we say amen with Solomon - Verily there is nothing new under the sun.””

Herman Melville

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The passage reflects on the timelessness of human experience, noting that even extraordinary events are repetitions of past ages, echoing the biblical "nothing new under the sun."

In simple terms: History repeats itself; no event is truly original.

Key Takeaway

Recognize patterns to gain insight.

Themes

history philosophy repetition

Mood

contemplative melancholic

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • literary analysis
  • philosophical debate

Key Concepts

cyclical nature human condition

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern events feel truly unprecedented?
  • How does recognizing repetition affect our expectations?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on repetition may ignore genuine novelty.

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