Skip to content

Captives Quote by Rabindranath Tagore

“I thought that my invincible power would hold the world captive, leaving me in a freedom undisturbed. Thus night and day I worked at the chain with huge fires and cruel hard strokes. When at last the work was done and the links were complete and unbreakable, I found that it held me in its grip.” quote by Rabindranath Tagore
Download Open image
“I thought that my invincible power would hold the world captive, leaving me in a freedom undisturbed. Thus night and day I worked at the chain with huge fires and cruel hard strokes. When at last the work was done and the links were complete and unbreakable, I found that it held me in its grip.”

Rabindranath Tagore

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Chain” (hypothetical), 1910

Seeking absolute control can become a self‑imposed prison, limiting freedom.

In simple terms: Trying to dominate everything can trap you.

Key Takeaway

Beware of over‑controlling ambitions.

Themes

power control freedom

Mood

reflective cautionary

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • personal ambition
  • creative projects
  • relationship dynamics

Key Concepts

self‑restriction paradox of mastery

Questions to Reflect On

  • What freedoms are you sacrificing for control?
  • Can you let go without losing purpose?
A Different Perspective

Absolute control is often illusionary and restrictive.

2.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Rabindranath Tagore

Explore all 596 Rabindranath Tagore quotes

More Captives quotes

Browse all 176 Captives quotes