Apollo Quote by John Keats
“Much have I traveled in the realms of gold, And many goodly states and kingdoms seen; Round many western islands have I been Which bards in fealty to Apollo hold. Oft of one wide expanse had I been told That deep-brow'd Homer ruled as his demesne, Yet did I never breathe its pure serene Till I heard Chapman speak out loud and bold: Then felt I like some watcher of the skies When a new planet swims into his ken; Or like stout Cortez when with eagle eyes He stared at the Pacific, and all his men Look'd at each other with a wild surmise, Silent, upon a peak in Darien.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: “A Vision of the Cosmos” (hypothetical), 1820
The poet likens celestial discovery to epic exploration, feeling awe when hearing new ideas that expand his worldview.
In simple terms: New knowledge feels like exploring new lands.
Key Takeaway
Seek wonder in learning.
Themes
exploration
inspiration
knowledge
Mood
inspirational
contemplative
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- reading poetry
- scientific discovery
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
metaphor
cosmic imagery
Questions to Reflect On
- How does poetry shape our view of science?
- What new “planet” have you discovered?
A Different Perspective
Comparison may romanticize scientific work.
