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If you throw a stone in a pond... the waves which strike…

“If you throw a stone in a pond... the waves which strike against the shores are thrown back towards the spot where the stone struck; and on meeting other waves they never intercept each other's course... In a small pond one and the same stroke gives birth to many motions of advance and recoil.” quote by Leonardo da Vinci
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“If you throw a stone in a pond... the waves which strike against the shores are thrown back towards the spot where the stone struck; and on meeting other waves they never intercept each other's course... In a small pond one and the same stroke gives birth to many motions of advance and recoil.”

Leonardo da Vinci

About This Quote

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

A single action creates ripples that interact, producing complex, ongoing motion.

In simple terms: One act triggers many interconnected effects.

Key Takeaway

Consider the broader impact of each action.

Themes

cause and effect interconnectedness complexity dynamics systems

Mood

reflective analytical curious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • project planning
  • team collaboration
  • environmental policy
  • social movements

Key Concepts

physics philosophy systems thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • What ripple effects might your decisions cause?
  • How can you anticipate complex outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Effects may be unpredictable; unintended consequences arise.

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