Architecture Quote by Peter Ackroyd
““...but there were four things I taught Walter to consider: 1) That it was Cain who built the first City, 2) That there is a true Science in the World called Scientia Umbrarum which, as to the publick teaching of it, has been suppressed but which the proper Artificer must comprehend, 3) That Architecture aims at Eternity and must contain the Eternal Powers: not only our Altars and Sacrifices, but the Forms of our Temples, must be mysticall, 4) That the miseries (If the present Life, and the Barbarities of Mankind, the fatall disadvantages we are all under and the Hazard we run of being eternally Undone, lead the True Architect not to Harmony or to Rationall Beauty but to quite another Game. Why, do we not believe the very Infants to be the Heirs of Hell and Children of the Devil as soon as they are disclos'd to the World? I declare that I build my Churches firmly on this Dunghil Earth and with a full Conception of Degenerated Nature. I have only room to add: there is a mad-drunken Catch, Hey ho! The Devil is dead! If that be true, I have been in the wrong Suit all my Life.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Book of the Dead, Peter Ackroyd, 1995
The narrator lists four esoteric principles about hidden knowledge, architecture, and humanity’s flawed nature, ending with a cynical view of divine authority.
In simple terms: Four strange teachings about secret science, eternal architecture, and humanity’s corruption.
Key Takeaway
Question the foundations of belief and authority.
Themes
mysticism
architecture
human nature
skepticism
Mood
dark
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- artistic creation
- personal reflection
- cultural critique
Key Concepts
occult science
eternal design
philosophical pessimism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you see any truth in these hidden teachings?
- How does this view affect your sense of purpose?
A Different Perspective
These ideas may be overly obscure for practical guidance.
