Graves Quote by George Eliot
“... we all of us, grave or light, get our thoughts entangled in metaphors, and act fatally on the strength of them ...”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Unknown, 19th‑century literature
Metaphors shape thought and behavior, often leading to fatal outcomes when taken literally.
In simple terms: Metaphors can trap us and cause harm.
Key Takeaway
Beware literal interpretations of figurative language.
Themes
language
metaphor
fatalism
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- creative writing
- decision making
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
literature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize when a metaphor is influencing you?
- What strategies prevent literal misinterpretation?
A Different Perspective
Metaphors are useful but can mislead if unexamined.
![“[W]e must learn to accommodate ourselves to the discovery that some of those cunningly-fashioned instruments called human souls have only a very limited range of music, and will not vibrate in the least under a touch that fills others with tremulous rapture or quivering agony.” quote by George Eliot](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/9be/george-eliot-84_agony_w-e-must-learn-to-accommodate-ourselves_12409.jpg)
