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Mythology is not a lie, mythology is poetry, it is…

“Mythology is not a lie, mythology is poetry, it is metaphorical. It has been well said that mythology is the penultimate truth--penultimate because the ultimate cannot be put into words. It is beyond words. Beyond images, beyond that bounding rim of the Buddhist Wheel of Becoming. Mythology…” quote by Joseph Campbell
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“Mythology is not a lie, mythology is poetry, it is metaphorical. It has been well said that mythology is the penultimate truth--penultimate because the ultimate cannot be put into words. It is beyond words. Beyond images, beyond that bounding rim of the Buddhist Wheel of Becoming. Mythology pitches the mind beyond that rim, to what can be known but not told.”

Joseph Campbell

About This Quote

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

Mythology conveys profound truths through metaphor and poetry, surpassing literal language to express ultimate realities.

In simple terms: Mythology expresses deep truths poetically.

Key Takeaway

Seek metaphorical meaning in myths.

Themes

mythology truth metaphor

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • religious study
  • literary analysis
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

cultural narratives spiritual insight

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ultimate truth does a myth reveal for you?
  • How does metaphor shape your worldview?
A Different Perspective

Metaphors may be misinterpreted.

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