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Though love repine, and reason chafe, There came a voice…

“Though love repine, and reason chafe, There came a voice without reply,- "'Tis man's perdition to be safe, When for the truth he ought to die."” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“Though love repine, and reason chafe, There came a voice without reply,- "'Tis man's perdition to be safe, When for the truth he ought to die."”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

True conviction may demand sacrifice; staying safe avoids truth, which can lead to moral ruin.

In simple terms: Truth may require sacrifice.

Key Takeaway

Choose truth over safety.

Themes

truth courage morality

Mood

serious reflective

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • personal integrity decisionsspiritual practice
  • social reform

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it justified to prioritize safety?
  • What costs does avoiding truth impose?
A Different Perspective

Safety can be a rational choice in dangerous contexts.

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