Conscientious Quote by Thomas Mann
““a noble and active mind blunts itself against nothing so quickly as the sharp and bitter irritant of knowledge. And certain it is that the youth's constancy of purpose, no matter how painfully conscientious, was shallow beside the mature resolution of the master of his craft, who made a right-about-face, turned his back on the realm of knowledge, and passed it by with averted face, lest it lame his will or power of action, paralyse his feelings or his passions, deprive any of these of their conviction or utility.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Doctor Faustus, 1947
Mature mastery may reject relentless pursuit of knowledge to preserve will and passion, fearing it could diminish purpose.
In simple terms: Experienced creators may turn away from knowledge to stay powerful.
Key Takeaway
Balance learning with purpose, avoid over‑intellectualization.
Themes
knowledge
will
passion
mastery
Mood
cautious
introspective
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- career decisions
- artistic development
- personal growth
- leadership
Key Concepts
Existentialism
self‑control
creative focus
Questions to Reflect On
- When does knowledge become a hindrance?
- How can one stay purposeful without rejecting learning?
A Different Perspective
Risk of stagnation or ignorance.
