Doe Quote by William Cowper
“Knowledge, a rude unprofitable mass, the mere materials with which wisdom builds, till smoothed and squared and fitted to its place, does but encumber whom it seems to enrich. Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much; wisdom is humble that he knows no more.”
About This Quote
Source Poem: The Task by William Cowper, 1785
Knowledge is raw material that can become burdens, while wisdom is humility that knows its limits.
In simple terms: Knowledge can be heavy; wisdom stays humble.
Value humility over accumulation.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education
- personal development
- decision making
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance learning with humility?
- When does knowledge become a burden?
Knowledge alone can mislead without reflection.