And fast by, hanging in a golden chain, This pendent world, in bigness as a star Of smallest magnitude, close by the moon.
Interpretation
The quote reflects on the insignificance of the earthly world in comparison to the vastness of the universe.
John Milton's quote depicts a profound philosophical contemplation about the nature of existence and the relative scale of our world. By comparing the earthly realmβa 'pendent world'βto a 'star of smallest magnitude,' it highlights how minuscule our lives and concerns are against the grand backdrop of the universe, often evoking a sense of humility and reflection on what truly matters in life.
In practice
This quote could be shared during a lecture on philosophy to emphasize the perspective of human existence in the universe.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
Global markets must be balanced by global values such as respect for human rights and international law, democracy, security and sustainable economic and environmental development.
Call your opinions your creed, and you will change it every week.
Misled by fancy's meteor ray, By passion driven; But yet the light that led astray Was light from heaven.
"You were not born to be a second-hander." Howard Roark to Gail Wynand in "The Fountainhead"
In every real man a child is hidden that wants to play.
And I don't think we should be continuing to propagate the idea that famous people are magical or special because it makes people feel like their lives ain't no good.
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