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And he, who servilely creeps after sense, Is safe, but…

“And he, who servilely creeps after sense, Is safe, but ne'er will reach an excellence.” quote by John Dryden
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“And he, who servilely creeps after sense, Is safe, but ne'er will reach an excellence.”

John Dryden

About This Quote

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

A poet warns that those who merely follow basic sense without striving for higher ideals will achieve safety but never true excellence.

In simple terms: Following sense alone limits achievement.

Key Takeaway

Aim beyond basic safety toward excellence.

Themes

philosophy motivation excellence aspiration human potential

Mood

inspirational thoughtful

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • career development
  • personal ambition
  • educational pursuits
  • creative work

Key Concepts

virtue self‑improvement intellectual growth

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does excellence look like for you?
  • How can you move beyond mere safety?
A Different Perspective

Safety can become complacency.

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