Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Chaos of thought and passion, all confused; Still by himself abused or disabused; Created half to rise, and half to fall; Great lord of all things, yet a prey to all; Sole judge of truth, in endless error hurled,- The glory, jest, and riddle of the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the confusion and contradictions of human existence, depicting the struggle between truth and error.
In this quote, Alexander Pope delves into the complexities of the human experience, illustrating how individuals are often caught in a turmoil of thoughts and emotions. He portrays humanity as a paradox, possessing the ability to discern truth yet frequently falling into confusion and error. This duality emphasizes the struggle for understanding amid chaos, highlighting both the grandeur and the folly of the human condition.
Themes
ChaosTruthHumanityExistencePhilosophyParadox
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the nature of human existence, one might reference this quote to illustrate the complexities people face.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes →What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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