No friend to Love like a long voyage at sea.
Where there is no novelty, there can be no curiosity.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Curiosity arises from new and interesting experiences; without novelty, there's nothing to spark it.
Aphra Behn's quote emphasizes the idea that curiosity is fundamentally linked to the presence of novelty. When we encounter new and unique experiences, our minds are stimulated, prompting questions and exploration. Without these new elements, our curiosity is stifled, leading to stagnation in thought and understanding. This highlights the importance of seeking out new ideas and experiences to foster a curious and engaged mindset.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of education, one might say, 'As Aphra Behn reminds us, where there is no novelty, there can be no curiosity.'
More from Aphra Behn
All quotes βOf all that writ, he was the wisest bard, who spoke this mighty truth- He that knew all that ever learning writ, Knew only this-that he knew nothing yet.
That perfect tranquillity of life, which is nowhere to be found but in retreat, a faithful friend and a good library.
As love is the most noble and divine passion of the soul, so is it that to which we may justly attribute all the real satisfactions of life, and without it, man is unfinished, and unhappy.
One hour of right-down love is worth an age of dully living on.
Here lies a Proof that Wit can never be Defence enough against Mortality
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