Lewis closes his book, The Abolition of Man, with these…
““Lewis closes his book, The Abolition of Man, with these prophetic words: “You cannot go on ‘explaining away’ for ever: you will find that you have explained explanation itself away. . . . If you see through everything, then everything is transparent. But a wholly transparent world is an invisible world. To see through all things is the same as not to see.” ””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Lewis warns that relentless rational explanation erodes mystery, making reality invisible and suggesting that over‑analysis can blind us to deeper truths.
In simple terms: Too much explanation removes mystery, making reality invisible.
Key Takeaway
Balance explanation with wonder to retain insight.
Themes
philosophy
epistemology
truth
knowledge
mystery
Mood
contemplative
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- Academic lectures on philosophy
- personal reflection on belief
- creative writing workshops
- ethical debates
- spiritual retreats
Key Concepts
explanatory limits
transparency paradox
perception
cognitive humility
Questions to Reflect On
- Can we ever fully explain reality?
- What is lost when everything becomes transparent?
A Different Perspective
Over‑analysis can lead to nihilism and loss of meaning.