Degrees Quote by William Blake
“Those who restrain desire, do so because theirs is weak enough to be restrained; and the restrainer or reason usurps its place & governs the unwilling. And being restrain'd it by degrees becomes passive till it is only the shadow of desire.”
About This Quote
Desire is suppressed when it is weak; then reason replaces it, turning the suppressed desire into a mere echo of its former self.
In simple terms: Weak desire yields to reason, leaving only a shadow.
Key Takeaway
Unchecked desire becomes a faint echo when overruled by reason.
Themes
self-control
reason
desire
power dynamics
psychology
Mood
contemplative
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
maxim
reflection
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- moral decision-making
- habit formation
- creative block
Key Concepts
willpower
inner conflict
autonomy
Practical Applications
- mindfulness practices
- cognitive reframing
Questions to Reflect On
- How does suppressing desire affect personal agency?
- When might restraint become detrimental?
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