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Try to remember this: what you project Is what you will…

“Try to remember this: what you project Is what you will perceive; what you perceive With any passion, be it love or terror, May take on whims and powers of its own. Therefore a numb and grudging circumspection Will serve you best - unless you overdo it, Watching your step too narrowly, refusing To…” quote by Richard Wilbur
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“Try to remember this: what you project Is what you will perceive; what you perceive With any passion, be it love or terror, May take on whims and powers of its own. Therefore a numb and grudging circumspection Will serve you best - unless you overdo it, Watching your step too narrowly, refusing To specify a world, shrinking your purview To a tight vision of your inching shoes, Which may, as soon as you come to think, be crossing An unseen gorge upon a rotten trestle.”

Richard Wilbur

About This Quote

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

Projecting strong emotions shapes perception, but excessive scrutiny narrows vision, risking missing larger truths.

In simple terms: Our projections affect perception; over‑analysis limits view.

Key Takeaway

Stay aware of bias but keep perspective broad.

Themes

perception projection bias awareness

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

poetic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • decision making
  • creative work
  • personal growth
  • stress management

Key Concepts

cognitive bias mindfulness vision

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance careful observation with openness?
  • When does focus become a blind spot?
A Different Perspective

Over‑analysis can lead to paralysis.

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