Edible Quote by Thomas Merton
““Confucious and the Madman (excerpt) The cinnamon tree is edible: so it is cut down! The lacquer tree is profitable: they maim it. Every man knows how useful it is to be useful. No one seems to know How useful it is to be useless.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Confucius and the Madman” excerpt, 1965
Utility is praised, yet being useless can reveal deeper value and freedom.
In simple terms: Uselessness can be valuable.
Key Takeaway
Embrace non‑productivity sometimes.
Themes
philosophy
humility
purpose
Mood
thoughtful
reflective
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- creative breaks
- mindful rest
- artistic inspiration
Key Concepts
usefulness paradox
existential freedom
Questions to Reflect On
- When is being “useless” beneficial?
- How does usefulness define worth?
A Different Perspective
Society often stigmatizes idleness.
