This cabin, Mary, in my sight appears,_x000D_ _x000D_ Built as it has been in our waning years,_x000D_ _x000D_ A rest afforded to our weary feet,_x000D_ _x000D_ Preliminary to - the last retreat.
William CowperRead
Knowledge, a rude unprofitable mass, the mere materials with which wisdom builds, till smoothed and squared and fitted to its place, does but encumber whom it seems to enrich. Knowledge is proud that he has learned so much; wisdom is humble that he knows no more.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Knowledge alone is insufficient without wisdom to apply it effectively.
This quote by William Cowper highlights the distinction between knowledge and wisdom. While knowledge consists of information and facts, it becomes truly valuable when shaped and utilized by wisdom. Knowledge can seem overwhelming and unhelpful if not directed wisely, as it is the application of knowledge through wisdom that leads to true understanding and enrichment.
Themes
KnowledgeWisdomLearningHumilityUnderstanding
In practice
Example use cases
In a seminar about education, one could quote Cowper to emphasize the importance of teaching students to think critically and apply their knowledge.
More from William Cowper
All quotes →Strength may wield the ponderous spade, May turn the clod, and wheel the compost home; But elegance, chief grace the garden shows, And most attractive, is the fair result Of thought, the creature of a polished mind.
William CowperRead
No wisdom that she may gain by experience and reflection hereafter, will compensate the loss of her present hilarity.
William CowperRead
Even in the stifling bosom of the town,_x000D_ _x000D_ A garden, in which nothing thrives, has charms_x000D_ _x000D_ That soothes the rich possessor; much consol'd,_x000D_ _x000D_ That here and there some sprigs of mournful mint,_x000D_ _x000D_ Or nightshade, or valerian, grace the well_x000D_ _x000D_ He cultivates.
William CowperRead
Now stir the fire, and close the shutters fast, Let fall the curtains, wheel the sofa around, And while the bubbling and loud-hissing urn Throws up a steamy column, and the cups That cheer but not inebriate, wait on each, So let us welcome peaceful evening in
William CowperRead
Thus happiness depends, as nature shows, less on exterior things than most suppose.
William CowperRead
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