It is chiefly through books that we enjoy intercourse with superior minds. In the best books, great men talk to us, give us their most precious thoughts, and pour their souls into ours.
William Ellery ChanningRead
The reveries of youth, in which so much energy is wasted, are the yearnings of a Spirit made for what it has not found but must forever seek as an Ideal.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Youthful dreams often feel unfulfilled as they represent a deeper quest for ideals and purpose.
This quote reflects on the nature of youth and its energies spent on dreams and desires that remain elusive. It suggests that these yearnings are indicative of a deeper spiritual quest, highlighting the universal pursuit of ideals and aspirations that may never be completely attained, yet drive individuals to keep seeking meaning and fulfillment in life.
Themes
YouthIdealSpiritYearningDreamsEnergy
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech to inspire students about their future aspirations.
More from William Ellery Channing
All quotes →No power in society, no hardship in your condition can depress you, keep you down, in knowledge, power, virtue, influence, but by your own consent.
William Ellery ChanningRead
I laugh, for hope hath a happy place with me; If my boat sinks, 'tis to another sea.
William Ellery ChanningRead
We smile at the ignorance of the savage who cuts down the tree in order to reach its fruit; but the same blunder is made by every person who is over eager and impatient in the pursuit of pleasure.
William Ellery ChanningRead
Every mind was made for growth, for knowledge, and its nature is sinned against when it is doomed to ignorance.
William Ellery ChanningRead
He who is false to the present duty breaks a thread in the loom, and you will see the effect when the weaving of a life-time is unraveled.
William Ellery ChanningRead
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