Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
The Bat that flits at close of Eve_x000D_ _x000D_ Has left the Brain that won't believe._x000D_ _x000D_ The Owl that calls upon the Night_x000D_ _x000D_ Speaks the Unbeliever's fright.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote explores the tension between belief and skepticism, using imagery of a bat and an owl to symbolize different states of understanding.
In this quote, William Blake juxtaposes the activities of a bat, which is active at dusk and represents doubt and disbelief, with an owl, a creature of the night that embodies wisdom and insight. The bat leaving the brain signifies the departure of reason and certainty, while the owl's call represents the fears that stem from uncertainty and disbelief, suggesting that embracing knowledge and belief can illuminate the darkness of ignorance.
Themes
BeliefSkepticismFearKnowledgeWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about belief systems, this quote can highlight the fears that accompany skepticism.
More from William Blake
All quotes βIn seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
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O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
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Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
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As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
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He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
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