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The power of the word, with which the cast away is cast…

“The power of the word, with which the cast away is cast away, pronounces the turning away from all moral uncertainty, from every sympathy with the abyss, the reneging of that phrase of compassion, that “to understand all is to forgive all”, and what was beginning here was that “wonder of the…” quote by Thomas Mann
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““The power of the word, with which the cast away is cast away, pronounces the turning away from all moral uncertainty, from every sympathy with the abyss, the reneging of that phrase of compassion, that “to understand all is to forgive all”, and what was beginning here was that “wonder of the reborn impartiality”, which was briefly mentioned in one of the author’s dialogues with not a little mystery. What strange coherence!””

Thomas Mann

About This Quote

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

The word’s power can absolve moral doubt, creating a detached impartiality that paradoxically masks deeper ethical complexities.

In simple terms: Words can falsely simplify moral issues.

Key Takeaway

Question the simplicity of moral absolutes.

Themes

language morality philosophy detachment complexity

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • legal judgments
  • journalistic reporting
  • personal ethics

Key Concepts

ethical relativism semantic power philosophical paradox

Questions to Reflect On

  • What moral issues do you simplify with language?
  • How can we maintain compassion while seeking objectivity?
A Different Perspective

Relying on simplistic language can obscure true moral nuance.

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