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
This is where men, even the trustiest, fail us. Their heart is never so wholly given to any matter but that some trifle of a meal, or a drink, or a sleep, or a joke, or a girl, may come in between them and it, and then (even if you are a queen) you'll get no more good out of them until they've had their way.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Even the most loyal individuals can be distracted by simple pleasures, impacting their commitment.
C. S. Lewis highlights how even the most dependable individuals can be swayed by basic desires and distractions such as food, drink, sleep, humor, or romance. This reflection emphasizes the inherent limitations in human focus and devotion, suggesting that complete commitment is often elusive, especially when trivial needs overshadow more significant responsibilities.
Themes
CommitmentDistractionLoyaltyHuman NatureRelationships
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the challenges of maintaining focus in relationships.
More from C. S. Lewis
All quotes →I 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.
C. S. LewisRead
Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
C. S. LewisRead
Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
C. S. LewisRead
I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
C. S. LewisRead
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
C. S. LewisRead
Similar quotes
Love your Neighbour; yet don't pull down your Hedge.
Benjamin FranklinRead
We live in a society where we may have differences, of course, but we learn to celebrate these differences.
Bernice KingRead
Everyone has an invisible sign hanging from their neck saying, 'Make me feel important.' Never forget this message when working with people.
Mary Kay AshRead
If any difference should be made by law between husband and wife, reason, justice and humanity, if their voices were heard, would dictate that it should be in her favor.
Ernestine RoseRead
There is only one thing that a man really wants to do, all his life; and that is, to find his way to his God, his Morning Star, salute his fellow man, and enjoy the woman who has come the long way with him.
D. H. LawrenceRead
Ask before offering advice or reassurance.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead