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Anarchy Quote by Percy Bysshe Shelley

“...What are numbers knit By force or custom? Man who man would be, Must rule the empire of himself; in it Must be supreme, establishing his throne On vanquished will, quelling the anarchy Of hopes and fears, being himself alone.” quote by Percy Bysshe Shelley
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“...What are numbers knit By force or custom? Man who man would be, Must rule the empire of himself; in it Must be supreme, establishing his throne On vanquished will, quelling the anarchy Of hopes and fears, being himself alone.”

Percy Bysshe Shelley

About This Quote

Source Poem: Unpublished fragment, 1820s

A call for self‑mastery, urging individuals to dominate their own inner conflicts and desires.

In simple terms: Control yourself to rule yourself.

Key Takeaway

Master your inner will.

Themes

self‑control power individualism

Mood

determined reflective

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance self‑authority with community needs?
  • What inner conflicts hinder your personal rule?
A Different Perspective

Self‑domination can ignore external constraints and lead to isolation.

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