We call those poets who are first to mark, Through earth's dull mist the coming of the dawn, Who see in twilight's gloom the first pale spark, While others only note that day is gone.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Wisdom is the abstract of the past, but beauty is the promise of the future.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wisdom draws from past experiences while beauty offers hope and potential for the future.
This quote emphasizes the distinction between wisdom and beauty, suggesting that wisdom is formed through the lessons and experiences of the past, which shape our understanding of the world. In contrast, beauty is portrayed as a hopeful and inspiring vision of what lies ahead, encouraging us to aspire for a better future. Together, they remind us to find value in our history while also looking forward to the possibilities that beauty represents.
Themes
WisdomBeautyPastFutureHope
In practice
Example use cases
During a graduation speech to inspire graduates about their future.
More from Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.
All quotes βEvery real thought on every real subject knocks the wind out of somebody or other.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
The very aim and end of our institutions is just this: that we may think what we like and say what we think.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Don't you stay at home of evenings? Don't you love a cushioned seat in a corner, by the fireside, with your slippers on your feet?
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle which fits them all.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
Take your needle, my child, and work at your pattern; it will come out a rose by and by. Life is like that - one stitch at a time taken patiently and the pattern will come out all right like the embroidery.
Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr.Read
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Goe and catche a falling starre, Get with child a mandrake root, Tell me, where all past yeares are, Or who cleft the Divel's foot. Teach me to hear Mermaides' singing, Or to keep of envies stinging, And finde What winde Serves to advance an honest minde.
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We do not ignore maturity. Maturity consists in not losing the past while fully living in the present with a prudent awareness of the possibilities of the future.
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