For small erections may be finished by their first…
“For small erections may be finished by their first architects; grand ones, true ones, ever leave the copestone to posterity. God keep me from ever completing anything. This whole book is but a draught—nay, but the draught of a draught. Oh, Time, Strength, Cash, and Patience!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Architectural projects start small but lasting works require future generations to finish them; the speaker fears never completing anything.
In simple terms: Small works finish early; great works need others to finish.
Key Takeaway
Accept that some things remain unfinished.
Themes
legacy
completion
humility
Mood
reflective
melancholic
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- building a monument
- writing a novel
- software development
- family lineage
Key Concepts
impermanence
collaboration
time
Questions to Reflect On
- What part of your work will you leave for others?
- How do you balance personal ambition with humility?
A Different Perspective
Great works often outlive their creators, making personal completion elusive.