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
Power to translate is the test of having really understood one's own meaning.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding one's own thoughts is crucial for effective communication.
C. S. Lewis emphasizes that the true measure of comprehension is the ability to convey one's ideas clearly to others. If a person can translate their internal thoughts into a form that others can understand, it reflects a deep understanding of those thoughts. This quote illustrates the importance of clarity in communication as a sign of intellectual grasp.
Themes
UnderstandingCommunicationClarityThoughtsTranslation
In practice
Example use cases
In a classroom discussion to emphasize the importance of explaining concepts clearly.
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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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