Skip to content

Astronomy Quote by Hannah Arendt

“This is mortality: to move along a rectilinear line in a universe where everything, if it moves at all, moves in a cyclical order. The task and potential greatness of mortals lie in their ability to produce things—works and deeds and words19—which would deserve to be and, at least to a degree, are…” quote by Hannah Arendt
Download Open image
““This is mortality: to move along a rectilinear line in a universe where everything, if it moves at all, moves in a cyclical order. The task and potential greatness of mortals lie in their ability to produce things—works and deeds and words19—which would deserve to be and, at least to a degree, are at home in everlastingness, so that through them mortals could find their place in a cosmos where everything is immortal except themselves.””

Hannah Arendt

About This Quote

Source Book: The Human Condition, 1958

Mortals can achieve a lasting impact by creating works that echo beyond their finite lives.

In simple terms: Create lasting works to outlive yourself.

Key Takeaway

Focus on creating enduring contributions.

Themes

legacy creativity mortality meaning

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • artistic creation
  • academic publishing
  • public speaking
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

existentialism humanism eternity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What can you create that will endure?
  • How do you measure lasting impact?
A Different Perspective

Even great works may be forgotten over time.

4.1 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Hannah Arendt

Explore all 405 Hannah Arendt quotes

More Astronomy quotes

Browse all 6,190 Astronomy quotes