Skip to content

I am a thing not new, I am as old As human nature. I am…

“I am a thing not new, I am as old As human nature. I am that which lurks, Ready to spring whenever a bar is loosed; The ancient trait which fights incessantly Against restraint, balks at the upward climb; The weight forever seeking to obey The law of downward pull; and I am more: The bitter fruit…” quote by James Weldon Johnson
Download Open image
“I am a thing not new, I am as old As human nature. I am that which lurks, Ready to spring whenever a bar is loosed; The ancient trait which fights incessantly Against restraint, balks at the upward climb; The weight forever seeking to obey The law of downward pull; and I am more: The bitter fruit am I of planted seed; The resultant, the inevitable end Of evil forces and the powers of wrong.”

James Weldon Johnson

About This Quote

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

Human nature contains an ancient, destructive impulse that resists restraint and seeks to dominate, leading to inevitable downfall when unchecked.

In simple terms: People have a deep, old urge to dominate that often leads to ruin.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and temper destructive impulses.

Themes

human nature destruction self‑control inevitable consequences

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • leadership decisions
  • conflict resolution
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

psychology morality temptation downward pull

Questions to Reflect On

  • What inner drives push you toward harmful actions?
  • How can you channel this energy positively?
A Different Perspective

Even when recognized, the impulse can be hard to suppress without conscious effort.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by James Weldon Johnson

Explore all 65 James Weldon Johnson quotes

More Ancient quotes

Browse all 2,415 Ancient quotes