I speak and speak, [...] but the listener retains only the words he is expecting. [...] It is not the voice that commands the story: it is the ear.
Marco PoloRead
I believe it was God's will that we should come back, so that men might know the things that are in the world, since, as we have said in the first chapter of this book, no other man, Christian or Saracen, Mongol or pagan, has explored so much of the world as Messer Marco, son of Messer Niccolo Polo, great and noble citizen of the city of Venice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Marco Polo reflects on his journey and the purpose behind it, emphasizing the importance of exploration and knowledge.
In this quote, Marco Polo expresses his belief that his explorations were divinely intended to enlighten mankind about the world. He highlights his achievements in exploration, suggesting that knowledge gained from such journeys serves a greater purpose in informing others about diverse cultures and experiences.
Themes
ExplorationKnowledgeJourneyWorldPurpose
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used to inspire students during a geography class about the importance of exploration.
More from Marco Polo
All quotes →I did not write half of what I saw, for I knew I would not be believed
Marco PoloRead
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