Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.
Blaise PascalRead
Continuous eloquence wearies. Grandeur must be abandoned to be appreciated. Continuity in everything is unpleasant. Cold is agreeable, that we may get warm.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that constant eloquence and grandeur can lead to fatigue, and that a variety of experiences makes appreciation possible.
Blaise Pascal's quote reflects on the nature of appreciation and contrast in experiences. He argues that excessive eloquence and grandeur can become tiresome, highlighting the importance of moments of simplicity and modesty. By stating that continuity can lead to discomfort, he emphasizes that without contrasts—like cold to appreciate warmth—life's richness is diminished. This philosophy advocates for a balance between high and low, simplicity and complexity, to truly appreciate and experience life.
Themes
EloquenceGrandeurContinuityAppreciationContrast
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of variety in life experiences.
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Those are weaklings who know the truth and uphold it as long as it suits their purpose, and then abandon it.
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Jesus is the God whom we can approach without pride and before whom we can humble ourselves without despair.
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If he exalts himself, I humble him. If he humbles himself, I exalt him. And I go on contradicting him Until he understands That he is a monster that passes all understanding.
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What use is it to us to hear it said of a man that he has thrown off the yoke that he does not believe there is a God to watch over his actions, that he reckons himself the sole master of his behavior, and that he does not intend to give an account of it to anyone but himself?
Blaise PascalRead
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