Cocaine Quote by Arthur Conan Doyle
““It is cocaine," he said, "a seven-per-cent solution. Would you care to try it?" "No, indeed," I answered brusquely. "My constitution has not got over the Afghan campaign yet. I cannot afford to throw any extra strain upon it." He smiled at my vehemence. "Perhaps you are right, Watson," he said. "I suppose that its influence is physically a bad one. I find it, however, so transcendently stimulating and clarifying to the mind that its secondary action is a matter of small moment.””
About This Quote
The speaker describes cocaine as a potent, stimulating drug that offers mental clarity but also poses physical harm, reflecting a conflicted view of its effects.
In simple terms: Cocaine is alluring yet dangerous.
A drug can be both stimulating and harmful.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- seeking intellectual boost
- risking health
- debating drug use
- medical research
- personal health concerns
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- cautionary discussion on drug use
- exploring paradoxical effects of stimulants
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the long‑term consequences of using such stimulants?
- How does society balance curiosity with safety?
While the speaker finds it stimulating, the health risks and potential for addiction outweigh any short‑term mental benefits.