Weather is a literary specialty, and no untrained hand can turn out a good article on it
Mark TwainRead
We have not the reverent feeling for the rainbow that the savage has, because we know how it is made. We have lost as much as we gained by prying into that matter.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Understanding the science behind natural wonders can diminish the sense of awe they inspire.
Mark Twain's quote suggests that gaining knowledge and understanding about natural phenomena, such as rainbows, can lead to a loss of reverence and wonder. He contrasts the scientific perspective with that of 'savages,' who may marvel at the rainbow without understanding its origins, implying that ignorance can sometimes enhance our appreciation of beauty in nature.
Themes
RainbowKnowledgeWonderNatureScience
In practice
Example use cases
A discussion on the beauty of rainbows at a nature workshop.
More from Mark Twain
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To be good is noble; but to show others how to be good is nobler and no trouble.
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In Paris they just simply opened their eyes and stared when we spoke to them in French! We never did succeed in making those idiots understand their own language.
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