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.
Strictly speaking, no activity and no industry is possible without a certain amount of violence, no matter how little. Even the very process of living is impossible without a certain amount of violence. What we have to do is to minimize it to the greatest extent possible.
America was founded by people who believe that God was their rock of safety. I recognize we must be cautious in claiming that God is on our side, but I think it's all right to keep asking if we're on His side.
However much we guard against it, we tend to shape ourselves in the image others have of us.
Developing our sympathetic compassion is not only possible but the only reason for us to be here on earth.
Ahimsa is the attribute of the soul, and therefore, to be practiced by everybody in all affairs of life. If it cannot be practiced in all departments, it has no practical value.
Of course, any simplification runs the risk of mutilating reality; but it helps us establish perspectives.
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