Friendship Quote by Heinrich Zimmer
““Via Joseph Campbell: My friend Heinrich Zimmer of years ago used to say, "The best things can't be told," because they transcend thought. "The second best are misunderstood," because those are the thoughts that are supposed to refer to that which can't be thought about, and one gets stuck in the thoughts."The third best are what we talk about.””
About This Quote
Source Lecture: Comparative Mythology, 1950s
Ideas beyond language are hard to express; the best are ineffable, the second misunderstood, the third discussed.
In simple terms: Some ideas can't be spoken, some are misread, some we talk about.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of language and seek deeper understanding.
Themes
communication
language
limits
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- philosophical
- teaching
- cross‑cultural dialogue
Key Concepts
Phenomenology
semiotics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you convey the inexpressible?
- When is silence more truthful?
A Different Perspective
Misinterpretation can arise when trying to verbalize the ineffable.
