Convention Quote by Ivor A. Richards
““Our mother tongue, so far ahead of me, Displays her goods, hints at each bond and link, Provides the means, leaves it to us to think, Proffers the possibles, balanced mutually, To be used or not, as our designs elect, To be tried out, taken up or in or on, Scrapped or transformed past recognition, Though she sustains, she’s too wise to direct. Ineffably regenerative, how does she know So much more than we can? How hold such store For our recovery, for what must come before Our instauration, that future we will owe To what? To whom? To countless of our kind, Who, tending meanings, grew Man’s unknown Mind.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown, author‑attributed, early 20th century
Language is a living, self‑organizing system that offers possibilities while remaining impartial, shaping thought and culture without explicit direction.
In simple terms: Language provides tools and possibilities without dictating use.
Key Takeaway
Respect language’s autonomy and explore its creative potential.
Themes
language
creativity
autonomy
culture
knowledge
Mood
reflective
curious
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing
- teaching
- translation
- software development
- cultural analysis
Key Concepts
semiotics
generative systems
cognitive linguistics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape your worldview?
- In what ways can you harness language’s flexibility?
A Different Perspective
Language can be misinterpreted, leading to unintended consequences.
