The comic spirit is given to us in order that we may analyze, weigh, and clarify things in us which nettle us, or which we are outgrowing, or trying to reshape
Thornton WilderRead
Faith is a never-ending pool of clarity, reaching far beyond the margins of consciousness. We all know more than we know we know.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Faith provides insight and understanding that transcends our conscious awareness.
This quote by Thornton Wilder suggests that faith allows individuals to access deeper truths and knowledge that lie outside the boundaries of their present awareness. It implies that there is a vast pool of understanding within us, shaped by our beliefs and intuition, which guides us even when we are not consciously aware of it.
Themes
FaithClarityKnowledgeBeliefConsciousness
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about overcoming challenges, a speaker might quote this to emphasize the power of belief.
More from Thornton Wilder
All quotes →A man looks pretty small at a wedding, George. All those good women standing shoulder to shoulder, making sure that the knot's tied in a mighty public way.
Thornton WilderRead
Good-by, Good-by, world. Good-by, Grover's Corners... Mama and Papa. Good-by to clocks ticking... and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new-ironed dresses and hot baths...and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you.
Thornton WilderRead
When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home.
Thornton WilderRead
Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.
Thornton WilderRead
I want you to try and remember what it was like to have been very young. And particularly the days when you were first in love; when you were like a person sleepwalking, and you didn’t quite see the street you were in, and didn’t quite hear everything that was said to you. You’re just a little bit crazy. Will you remember that, please?
Thornton WilderRead
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Even if they don't know that you are practicing for them, you are helping them and in turn they are helping you. They are actively helping you to develop your compassion, and so to purify and heal yourself. For me, all dying people are teachers, giving to all those who help them a chance to transform themselves through developing their compassion.
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To give a person an opinion one must first judge well whether that person is of the disposition to receive it or not.
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I am lucky to be what I am! Thank goodness I'm not just a clam, or a ham, or a dusty jar of sour gooseberry jam! I am what I am - that's a great thing to be!
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One should not wish to enjoy where one does not give joy.
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It take many a year, mon, and maybe some bloodshed must be, but righteousness someday prevail.
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