Men may dam it and say that they have made a lake, but it…
“Men may dam it and say that they have made a lake, but it will still be a river. It will keep its nature and bide its time, like a caged animal alert for the slightest opening. In time, it will have its way; the dam, like the ancient cliffs, will be carried away piecemeal in the currents.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human attempts to control nature ultimately fail; natural forces will reassert themselves over time.
In simple terms: Nature cannot be permanently restrained.
Key Takeaway
Respect natural limits.
Themes
environment
resilience
patience
control
freedom
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
environmental
philosophical
When to use this quote
- river management
- urban planning
- environmental activism
Key Concepts
ecosystem dynamics
river flow
human hubris
time
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the long‑term consequences of altering natural systems?
- How can we work with nature instead of against it?
A Different Perspective
Human engineering may cause unintended damage.