Liberty's in every blow! Let us do or die.
Robert BurnsRead
There is nothing in the whole frame of man which seems to me so unaccountable as that thing called conscience.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Conscience is a complex aspect of human nature that is difficult to understand.
In this quote, Robert Burns reflects on the enigmatic nature of conscience, suggesting that it is a mysterious and unexplainable aspect of humanity. He implies that, despite our understanding of many human traits and behaviors, conscience remains an elusive and profound element, illustrating the complexity of moral judgment and ethical reasoning within individuals.
Themes
ConscienceHuman NatureMoral JudgmentEthicsMystery
In practice
Example use cases
In a conversation about ethical decision-making, one might say, 'As Robert Burns noted, there is nothing in the whole frame of man which seems so unaccountable as that thing called conscience.'
More from Robert Burns
All quotes βI'm truly sorry man's dominion has broken Nature's social union.
Robert BurnsRead
Love's first snow-drop, virgin kiss.
Robert BurnsRead
All-cheering Plenty, with her flowing horn, Led yellow Autumn, wreath'd with nodding corn.
Robert BurnsRead
Should auld acquaintance be forgot, And never brought to min?
Robert BurnsRead
Apropos, is not the Scotch phrase 'Auld Lang Syne' exceedingly expressive? I shall give you the verses on the other sheet. The words of 'Auld Lang Syne' are good, but the music is an old air, the rudiments of the modern tune of that name. ... Dare to be honest and fear no labor. ... Opera is where a man gets stabbed in the back, and instead of dying, he sings. ... Chords that vibrate sweetest pleasure thrill the deepest notes of woe. ... Critics! Those cut-throat bandits in the paths of fame.
Robert BurnsRead
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