O thou who art able to write a Book, which once in the two…
“O thou who art able to write a Book, which once in the two centuries or oftener there is a man gifted to do, envy not him whom they name City-builder, and inexpressibly pity him whom they name Conqueror or City-burner! Thou too art a Conqueror and Victor; but of the true sort, namely over the Devil: thou too hast built what will outlast all marble and metal, and be a wonder-bringing City of the Mind, a Temple and Seminary and Prophetic Mount, whereto all kindreds of the Earth will pilgrim.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Celebrates intellectual achievement over physical conquest, urging admiration for creators of ideas and culture.
In simple terms: Ideas outlast physical monuments.
Key Takeaway
Value and nurture intellectual creation.
Themes
intellectualism
legacy
culture
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
philosophical
historical
When to use this quote
- education
- writing
- community building
- cultural projects
Key Concepts
philosophy
history
spirituality
Questions to Reflect On
- What ideas have you built that endure?
- How do you honor creators of thought?
A Different Perspective
Physical power can dominate but fades.