A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
I daren't come and drink," said Jill. Then you will die of thirst," said the Lion. Oh dear!" said Jill, coming another step nearer."I suppose I must go and look for another stream then." There is no other stream," said the Lion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that true fulfillment and assistance may require confronting fears and uncertainties.
In this quote from C. S. Lewis, Jill is hesitant to approach the Lion for a drink, fearing the unknown, while the Lion emphasizes the urgency of her need. The dialogue illustrates the idea that sometimes the solutions to our problems require us to take risks and confront our fears, suggesting that remaining passive will lead to greater suffering.
Themes
FearCourageThirstTruthRisk
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire someone hesitant about pursuing their dreams.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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