Skip to content

Mortal lives are not stones. They are not seas. For…

“Mortal lives are not stones. They are not seas. For impermanence to judge itself by the standards of permanence is folly. Or it is arrogance. Life merely is what it is, neither more nor less. To deem it less because it is not more is to heed the counsels of the Despiser.” quote by Stephen R. Donaldson
Download Open image
““Mortal lives are not stones. They are not seas. For impermanence to judge itself by the standards of permanence is folly. Or it is arrogance. Life merely is what it is, neither more nor less. To deem it less because it is not more is to heed the counsels of the Despiser.””

Stephen R. Donaldson

About This Quote

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

Impermanence cannot be judged by permanence; accepting life's fleeting nature avoids arrogance and despair.

In simple terms: Accept change, avoid false permanence.

Key Takeaway

Embrace life's fluidity.

Themes

impermanence humility existence philosophy wisdom

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • grief counseling
  • creative writing
  • spiritual retreats
  • personal growth
  • teaching philosophy

Key Concepts

Existentialism Stoicism mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you value transient moments?
  • What does permanence mean to you?
A Different Perspective

May lead to nihilism if not balanced with meaning.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Stephen R. Donaldson

Explore all 72 Stephen R. Donaldson quotes

More Death quotes

Browse all 39,127 Death quotes