Skip to content

Ah, snug lie those that slumber beneath conviction's roof…

“Ah, snug lie those that slumber beneath conviction's roof. Their floors are sturdy lumber, their windows weatherproof. But I sleep cold forever, and cold sleep all my kind, For I was born to shiver in the draft from an open mind. Born nakedly to shiver in the draft of an open mind.” quote by Phyllis McGinley
Download Open image
““Ah, snug lie those that slumber beneath conviction's roof. Their floors are sturdy lumber, their windows weatherproof. But I sleep cold forever, and cold sleep all my kind, For I was born to shiver in the draft from an open mind. Born nakedly to shiver in the draft of an open mind.””

Phyllis McGinley

About This Quote

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

The quote likens rigid belief to a warm, sealed house, while a free, questioning mind end cold and exposed, yet alive.

In simple terms: Closed minds are comfortable; open minds are uncomfortable but vibrant.

Key Takeaway

Embrace discomfort to grow.

Themes

freedom comfort intellectual curiosity conformity vulnerability

Mood

thoughtful reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical literary motivational

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • academic research
  • personal reflection
  • creative brainstorming
  • social activism

Key Concepts

existentialism psychology creativity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does discomfort fuel your learning?
  • What comforts are you willing to sacrifice for truth?
A Different Perspective

Open minds can feel isolated and may face social rejection.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Phyllis McGinley

Explore all 110 Phyllis McGinley quotes

More Faith quotes

Browse all 37,796 Faith quotes