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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.” quote by William Cowper
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“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.”

William Cowper

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.

Key Takeaway

Value humility over accumulation.

Themes

knowledge wisdom humility

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

poetic didactic

When to use this quote

  • education
  • personal development
  • decision making

Key Concepts

learning growth limitations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance learning with humility?
  • When does knowledge become a burden?
A Different Perspective

Knowledge alone can mislead without reflection.

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