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Old times Quote by Herman Melville

“In Saint Stylites, the famous Christian hermit of old times, who built him a lofty stone pillar in the desert and spent the whole latter portion of his life on its summit, hoisting his food from the ground with a tackle; in him we have a remarkable instance of a dauntless stander-of-mast-heads;” quote by Herman Melville
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““In Saint Stylites, the famous Christian hermit of old times, who built him a lofty stone pillar in the desert and spent the whole latter portion of his life on its summit, hoisting his food from the ground with a tackle; in him we have a remarkable instance of a dauntless stander-of-mast-heads;””

Herman Melville

About This Quote

Source Book: Moby‑Dick by Herman Melville, 1851

The hermit Saint Stylites exemplifies extreme dedication, standing on a pillar despite hardship, symbolizing steadfast resolve.

In simple terms: Extreme dedication on a pillar.

Key Takeaway

Pursue goals despite isolation.

Themes

dedication solitude spirituality

Mood

reflective serious

Type

historical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • pilgrimages
  • personal trials
  • spiritual quests

Key Concepts

asceticism resilience faith

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you stand on for your belief?
  • How does isolation shape conviction?
A Different Perspective

Such isolation can be psychologically taxing.

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