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Hinduism Quote by Don Marquis

“There was once a Hindu sage, who sat down on the banks of the Ganges and thought for seventy years about the millennium. Just as he arrived at the solution and was putting it into verse, a mosquito stung him and he forgot it again at once.” quote by Don Marquis
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“There was once a Hindu sage, who sat down on the banks of the Ganges and thought for seventy years about the millennium. Just as he arrived at the solution and was putting it into verse, a mosquito stung him and he forgot it again at once.”

Don Marquis

About This Quote

Source Fable: The Mosquito and the Sage, attributed to Don Marquis, early 20th century

Even profound insight can be lost in an instant, highlighting the fragility of human memory.

In simple terms: Great ideas can disappear quickly.

Key Takeaway

Capture insights promptly.

Themes

philosophy memory impermanence

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical practical

When to use this quote

  • research notes
  • personal journaling
  • academic lectures

Key Concepts

cognitive psychology ephemerality

Questions to Reflect On

  • What methods help you retain fleeting ideas?
  • How do you prioritize which thoughts to record?
A Different Perspective

Memory is unreliable; external aids may be needed.

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