Abstract Quote by William Butler Yeats
“It seems that I must bid the Muse to pack, / Choose Plato and Plotinus for a friend / Until imagination, ear and eye, / Can be content with argument and deal / In abstract things; or be derided by / A sort of battered kettle at the heel.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: "The Second Coming" (1919) – lines from Yeats' poetry collection
The poet feels compelled to seek inspiration from classical thinkers to satisfy imagination, fearing abstract thought may be mocked or become burdensome.
In simple terms: Seeking deep inspiration to avoid empty abstraction.
Key Takeaway
Embrace classical ideas to enrich imagination.
Themes
creativity
philosophy
artistic struggle
Mood
contemplative
introspective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- writing
- academic research
- creative brainstorming
- philosophical debate
Key Concepts
classical influence
imagination
intellectual humility
Questions to Reflect On
- How can modern insights complement classical wisdom?
- What balances imagination with practical argument?
A Different Perspective
Relying solely on ancient sources may limit contemporary relevance.
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