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I have not slept. Between the acting of a dreadful thing And the first motion, all the interim is Like a phantasma, or a hideous dream: The Genius and the mortal instruments Are then in council; and the state of man, Like to a little kingdom, suffers then The nature of an insurrection.
William Shakespeare
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote reflects the turmoil between action and thought during a moment of crisis.

In this quote, Shakespeare explores the mental struggle one experiences before taking a significant action, especially regarding moral dilemmas. It suggests that the mind is occupied with fear and uncertainty, akin to being caught in a nightmarish state, as one contemplates the consequences of their decisions and the internal conflicts that arise, likening it to a kingdom on the brink of revolt, where disorder reigns before an action is taken.

Themes

CrisisDecisionTurmoilConflictAction

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a discussion about moral dilemmas faced by leaders.

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