Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
When I tell the truth, it is not for the sake of convincing those who do not know it, but for the sake of defending those that do.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Truth-telling is not about persuading skeptics but about supporting those who recognize the truth.
This quote by William Blake highlights the importance of speaking the truth not as a means to convince the unconvinced, but rather as an act of support for those who already understand and recognize the truth. It underscores the notion that truth has its own intrinsic value and serves to protect and uplift those who are already aware of it, rather than merely seeking to convert those who doubt it.
Themes
TruthDefendSupportRecognitionPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on ethics, one could refer to this quote to emphasize the duty to uphold truth.
More from William Blake
All quotes βIn seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
William BlakeRead
O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
William BlakeRead
Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
William BlakeRead
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
William BlakeRead
He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
William BlakeRead
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