A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
C. S. LewisRead
And as Jill gazed at its motionless bulk, she realized that she might as well have asked the whole mountain to move aside for her convenience.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the futility of expecting nature to cater to our individual desires.
C. S. Lewis conveys the idea that one should not expect the world, much like a mountain, to bend to their needs or wishes. This realization encourages humility and an understanding of the greater forces at play in life, reminding us of our small place in the universe and the importance of adapting to circumstances rather than demanding changes from them.
Themes
NatureMountainsHumilityAdaptationWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on environmental respect, this quote serves as a reminder of our relationship with nature.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes βI enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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