QuoteProject
The apple tree never asks the beech how he shall grow, nor the lion, the horse, how he shall take his prey.
William Blake
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Each being has its own path and should not seek validation or guidance from others on how to thrive.

This quote by William Blake emphasizes the importance of individual growth and self-discovery. Just as an apple tree grows according to its innate nature without consulting the beech tree, and a lion hunts according to its instinct without seeking advice from a horse, it suggests that each person should embrace their unique identity and approach to life, free from the pressure to conform to others' ways.

Themes

GrowthIndividualitySelf-DiscoveryWisdomNature

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech to emphasize the importance of following one's own path.

More from William Blake

Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
In 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

Similar quotes

Beware of him that is slow to anger; for when it is long coming, it is the stronger when it comes, and the longer kept. Abused patience turns to fury.
Francis QuarlesRead
I endeavor to be wise when I cannot be merry, easy when I cannot be glad, content with what cannot be mended, and patient when there be no redress.
Elizabeth MontaguRead
The open mind never acts: when we have done our utmost to arrive at a reasonable conclusion, we still must close our minds for the moment with a snap, and act dogmatically on our conclusions.
George Bernard ShawRead
No one is wise or safe, but they that are honest.
Walter RaleighRead
Until you make peace with your difficult memories, that pain will continue to bleed into your current and future experiences.
Iyanla VanzantRead
Entrepreneurs spend an inordinate amount of time inside of our own heads - thinking, analyzing, agonizing and obsessing over every little detail of our business. Sometimes, we need a break from ourselves. Meditation is a chance to let the thinking mind rest.
Lewis HowesRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.