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Astonishment Quote by Stephen Crane

“The wayfarer, Perceiving the pathway to truth, Was struck with astonishment. It was thickly grown with weeds. "Ha," he said, "I see that none has passed here In a long time." Later he saw that each weed Was a singular knife. "Well," he mumbled at last, "Doubtless there are other roads.” quote by Stephen Crane
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“The wayfarer, Perceiving the pathway to truth, Was struck with astonishment. It was thickly grown with weeds. "Ha," he said, "I see that none has passed here In a long time." Later he saw that each weed Was a singular knife. "Well," he mumbled at last, "Doubtless there are other roads.”

Stephen Crane

About This Quote

Source Poem: The Wayfarer (unpublished), 1895

The traveler discovers a neglected path overgrown with weeds, each weed like a knife, realizing multiple routes exist beyond the obvious.

In simple terms: He sees hidden dangers and alternative paths.

Key Takeaway

Explore less‑obvious routes and stay vigilant.

Themes

exploration uncertainty choice

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

literary inspirational

When to use this quote

  • hiking
  • career decisions
  • creative projects

Key Concepts

metaphor philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hidden challenges might you be overlooking?
  • How do you decide which path to follow?
A Different Perspective

Weeds can be both obstacles and guides.

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