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Ads Quote by Michel de Montaigne

“I would like to suggest that our minds are swamped by too much study and by too much matter just as plants are swamped by too much water or lamps by too much oil; that our minds, held fast and encumbered by so many diverse preoccupations, may well lose the means of struggling free, remaining bowed…” quote by Michel de Montaigne
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“I would like to suggest that our minds are swamped by too much study and by too much matter just as plants are swamped by too much water or lamps by too much oil; that our minds, held fast and encumbered by so many diverse preoccupations, may well lose the means of struggling free, remaining bowed and bent under the load; except that it is quite otherwise: the more our souls are filled, the more they expand; examples drawn from far-off times show, on the contrary, that great soldiers ad statesmen were also great scholars.”

Michel de Montaigne

About This Quote

Source Essay: "Apology for Raymond Sebond", 1580

Excessive study and material concerns can overwhelm the mind, yet true enrichment comes from filling the soul, which expands our capacity.

In simple terms: Balance study with soul‑growth.

Key Takeaway

Seek knowledge that expands, not burdens.

Themes

knowledge balance growth

Mood

philosophical inspirational

Type

reflective motivational

When to use this quote

  • academic pursuits
  • creative work
  • spiritual practice

Key Concepts

intellectual humility holistic learning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance learning with mental health?
  • What practices help your mind stay flexible?
A Different Perspective

Overloading the mind can stifle creativity.

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