Cities Quote by William Penn
“The country life is to be preferred, for there we see the works of God; but in cities little else but the works of men. And the one makes a better subject for contemplation than the other.”
About This Quote
Source Treat: Some Fruits of Solitude, 1682
Rural settings reveal divine creation, while urban life shows human effort; each offers distinct contemplation value.
In simple terms: Nature shows God's work; cities show human work.
Key Takeaway
Seek balance between nature and society.
Themes
spirituality
nature
urbanization
Mood
reflective
contemplative
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- hiking
- city planning
- meditation
- community service
Key Concepts
theology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your environment shape your sense of the divine?
- Can city life foster contemplation?
A Different Perspective
Urban life can also inspire spiritual reflection.
![“Just between you and me, shouldn’t the World Bank be encouraging MORE migration of the dirty industries to the LDCs [Less Developed Countries]?... I think the economic logic behind dumping a load of toxic waste in the lowest wage country is impeccable and we should face up to that... I’ve always…” quote by Lawrence Summers](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ac4/lawrence-summers-16940_air_just-between-you-and-me-shouldn-t-the-wo_4703.jpg)
