Air Quote by Leonardo da Vinci
“A bird maintains itself in the air by imperceptible balancing, when near to the mountains or lofty ocean crags; it does this by means of the curves of the winds which as they strike against these projections, being forced to preserve their first impetus bend their straight course towards the sky with divers revolutions, at the beginning of which the birds come to a stop with their wings open, receiving underneath themselves the continual buffetings of the reflex courses of the winds.”
About This Quote
Source Manuscript: Codex Atlanticus, 1508
A bird stays aloft by subtle wind balance, adjusting to obstacles; metaphor for adapting to forces while maintaining direction.
In simple terms: Adapt to subtle forces to stay aloft.
Key Takeaway
Adjust continuously, stay on course.
Themes
adaptation
balance
resilience
Mood
inspirational
reflective
Type
nature
philosophy
When to use this quote
- aviation
- leadership
- personal growth
Key Concepts
physics of flight
metaphor
Questions to Reflect On
- What “winds” affect your path?
- How do you balance resistance and motion?
A Different Perspective
Over‑adjustment can cause loss of direction.
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