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
Knock and it shall be opened.' But does knocking mean hammering and kicking the door like a maniac?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes that seeking opportunities requires a thoughtful approach rather than aggressive or reckless actions.
C. S. Lewis presents a metaphor about the nature of seeking and receiving opportunities in life. The act of 'knocking' symbolizes the pursuit of one's desires or goals, and he suggests that this should be done with intention and consideration, rather than with brute force or desperation. It reminds us that patience and wisdom in our efforts can lead to more meaningful and fruitful outcomes.
Themes
OpportunityEffortWisdomPatience
In practice
Example use cases
A motivational speaker could use this quote to encourage an audience to pursue their goals mindfully.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI 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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