Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
We think our fathers fools, so wise we grow. Our wiser sons, no doubt will think us so.
Interpretation
What this quote means
As we gain knowledge and maturity, we often view our parents' beliefs as outdated, and future generations will likely do the same to us.
This quote reflects the generational cycle of knowledge and perception, illustrating how each new generation often considers the preceding ones to be less wise than themselves. It serves as a reminder of the inevitable shift in understanding and values as society evolves, suggesting that wisdom is subjective and that each generation might eventually regard their own perspectives with similar skepticism as they mature.
Themes
WisdomGenerationPerceptionKnowledgeFathers
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about how values change over time.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes βWhat dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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