Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end.
Madame De StaelRead
Wit lies in recognizing the resemblance among things which differ and the difference between things which are alike.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Wit involves understanding similarities and differences in various contexts.
The quote by Madame De Stael emphasizes the intellectual skill of wit, which is the ability to discern connections between seemingly disparate things while also recognizing distinctions among those that are similar. This capacity for nuanced thinking enables deeper insights and enriches communication, ultimately fostering a more profound appreciation for the complexities of the world around us.
Themes
WitRecognitionSimilarityDifferenceIntelligence
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate, this quote can be used to highlight the importance of nuanced arguments.
More from Madame De Stael
All quotes βWhen at eve, at the bounding of the landscape, the heavens appear to recline so slowly on the earth, imagination pictures beyond the horizon an asylum of hope, - a native land of love; and nature seems silently to repeat that man is immortal.
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The more we know the better we forgive. Whoever feels deeply, feels for all who live.
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Intellect does not attain its full force unless it attacks power.
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The human mind always makes progress, but it is a progress in spirals.
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Politeness is the art of choosing among your thoughts.
Madame De StaelRead
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