Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Tis but a part we see, and not a whole.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that we often only perceive a fragment of reality rather than the complete picture.
Alexander Pope's quote emphasizes the limitations of human perception and understanding. It serves as a reminder that what we observe or understand is often just a small aspect of a much larger truth, encouraging a sense of humility and open-mindedness about our knowledge and insights.
Themes
PerceptionRealityUnderstandingTruthHumility
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about philosophy, one might say this quote to illustrate the nature of human knowledge.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes βWhat dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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