It is by no means an irrational fancy that, in a future existence, we shall look upon what we think our present existence, as a dream.
Interpretation
This quote suggests that our current reality may be perceived as merely a dream in a future life or existence.
Edgar Allan Poe's quote reflects on the nature of existence and consciousness. It proposes that what we perceive as reality in the present may be viewed as an illusion or 'dream' when compared to a higher state of being or future existence. This philosophical perspective invites contemplation on the transient nature of life and the deeper meanings that might exist beyond our immediate perception.
In practice
This quote can be used in a philosophical debate about the nature of reality.
But evil things, in robes of sorrow, Assailed the monarch's high estate; (Ah, let us mourn, for never morrow Shall dawn upon him desolate!) And round about his home the glory That blushed and bloomed, Is but a dim-remembered story Of the old time entombed.
Most writers - poets in especial - prefer having it understood that they compose by a species of fine frenzy - an ecstatic intuition - and would positively shudder at letting the public take a peep behind the scenes.
...the agony of my soul found vent in one loud, long and final scream of despair.
Where the good and the bad and the worst and the best have gone to their eternal rest.
I could have clasped the red walls to my bosom as a garment of eternal peace. "Death," I said, "any death but that of the pit!" Fool! might I have not known that into the pit it was the object of the burning iron to urge me?
In our endeavors to recall to memory something long forgotten, we often find ourselves upon the very verge of remembrance, without being able, in the end, to remember.
Principles are guidelines for human conduct that are proven to have enduring, permanent value.
Let nobody be afraid of true freedom of thought. Let us be free in thought and criticism; but, with freedom, we are bound to come to the conclusion that science is not antagonistic to religion, but a help to it.
As soon as we notice that certain types of events 'like' to cluster together at certain times, we begin to understand the Chinese, whose theories of medicine, philosophy, and even building are based on a 'science' of meaningful coincidences.
In almost every case (where the United States has fought wars) our overwhelming commitment to freedom, democracy and human rights has required us to support those regimes that would deny freedom, democracy and human rights to their own people.
Cursed is the man who dies, but the evil done by him survives.
People are not ants or bees. We do not reason or love or live or die collectively.
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