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
The more lucidly we think, the more we are cut off: the more deeply we enter into reality, the less we can think.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Deep understanding of reality can limit our ability to articulate thoughts.
C. S. Lewis suggests a paradox in human cognition where the clearer our understanding of reality becomes, the more it separates us from a conventional way of thinking. This implies that profound insights may lead to a form of intellectual isolation, as direct engagement with the complexities of existence often transcends mere logical expression and verbalization.
Themes
LucidityRealityThoughtUnderstandingPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophical discussion about the nature of existence, this quote can highlight the complexity of deep thought.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I 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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