If the propositions of this Discourse are tenable, the "state of progressive collapse" is precisely that state in which alone we are warranted in considering All Things.
Interpretation
The quote suggests that a progressive collapse of ideas allows for a comprehensive understanding of all things.
Edgar Allan Poe posits that only in a state of progressive collapse can we effectively contemplate and analyze all aspects of existence. This implies that through the unraveling or questioning of established ideas and beliefs, we can gain greater insight and understanding of the world around us, ultimately leading to a more holistic perspective on life and its complexities.
In practice
In a debate about social issues, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of reevaluating existing beliefs.
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.
The self is our life's goal, for it is the completest expression of that fateful combination we call individuality.
The existence of nuclear weapons presents a clear and present danger to life on Earth. Nuclear arms cannot bolster the security of any nation because they represent a threat to the security of the human race. These incredibly destructive weapons are an affront to our common humanity, and the tens of billions of dollars that are dedicated to their development and maintenance should be used instead to alleviate human need and suffering
In our universe there is God and there are people and things. We were made so that we should worship God, love people and use things. However if we worship ourselves, we will ignore God, start loving things and begin to use people.
When a mystery is too overpowering, one dare not disobey.
Litigant. A person about to give up his skin for the hope of retaining his bones.
Reason wishes that the judgement it gives be just; anger wishes that the judgement it has given seem to be just.
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