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That great mystery of TIME, were there no other; the…

“That great mystery of TIME, were there no other; the illimitable, silent, never-resting thing called Time, rolling, rushing on, swift, silent, like an all-embracing ocean tide, on which we and all the Universe swim like exhalations, like apparitions which are, and then are not: this is forever…” quote by Thomas Carlyle
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“That great mystery of TIME, were there no other; the illimitable, silent, never-resting thing called Time, rolling, rushing on, swift, silent, like an all-embracing ocean tide, on which we and all the Universe swim like exhalations, like apparitions which are, and then are not: this is forever very literally a miracle; a thing to strike us dumb,-for we have no word to speak about it.”

Thomas Carlyle

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 marvels at time’s endless, silent, and powerful nature, likening it to an ocean tide that makes existence fleeting and miraculous.

In simple terms: Time is an unstoppable, mysterious force that makes life fleeting.

Key Takeaway

Respect time’s power and live meaningfully.

Themes

time philosophy existence miracle

Mood

contemplative inspirational

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • philosophical reflection
  • meditation
  • life planning

Key Concepts

eternity impermanence cosmic perspective

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you measure your use of time?
  • What does the concept of time mean to you personally?
A Different Perspective

Time’s abstract nature makes it hard to grasp fully.

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