A witty woman is a treasure; a witty beauty is a power.
George MeredithRead
Not till the fire is dying in the grate, Look we for any kinship with the stars. Oh, wisdom never comes when it is gold, And the great price we paid for it full worth: We have it only when we are half earth. Little avails that coinage to the old!
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wisdom often emerges from our earthly struggles rather than material wealth.
This quote by George Meredith reflects on the nature of wisdom and its relationship to human experience. It suggests that true understanding and insight come not from wealth or external circumstances but from the challenges and trials we face in life. The phrase implies that only when we confront our limitations and embrace our earthly existence do we begin to forge a connection with the greater cosmos and the wisdom it offers, indicating that wisdom is intertwined with our human conditions, not just our financial or material successes.
Themes
WisdomExperienceEarthLifeChallenges
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech to emphasize the lessons learned through struggle and experience.
More from George Meredith
All quotes →Days, when the ball of our vision_x000D_ _x000D_ Had eagles that flew unabashed to sun;_x000D_ _x000D_ When the graps on the bow was decision,_x000D_ _x000D_ And arrow and hand and eye were one;_x000D_ _x000D_ When the Pleasures, like waves to a swimmer,_x000D_ _x000D_ Came heaving for rapture ahead! -_x000D_ _x000D_ Invoke them, they dwindle, they glimmer_x000D_ _x000D_ As lights over mounds of the dead.
George MeredithRead
Memoirs are the backstairs of history.
George MeredithRead
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