George Meredith Quotes

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The truth that makes men free is forged by the hand that holds it not."

This quote suggests that self-discovery, understanding, or knowledge that leads to personal liberation is not something one inherently possesses; rather, it's a discovery made through experiences and growth that others may facilitate but cannot truly grasp themselves. Essentially, the person who gains freedom through truth must forge it themselves by actively seeking, learning, and applying the wisdom gained.

"A little experience is a dangerous thing: it beguiles us into thinking we know what we are doing."

This quote by George Meredith emphasizes that having limited experience can lead to overconfidence and the false belief that one possesses expertise or understanding in a given subject. It implies that when individuals have little experience, they may assume their actions are well-informed and skillful, but this assumption can often be misleading and potentially harmful as they lack the full perspective and knowledge needed for true mastery.

"We are never nearer the true than when we seek it in the far-off parts of the world."

This quote suggests that seeking truth or understanding often requires venturing into uncharted territories, metaphorically or literally. The "far-off parts of the world" could represent places distant from one's comfort zone, culture, beliefs, or perspectives. By stepping out of our familiar surroundings and exploring new ideas, people, and experiences, we may gain fresh insights and draw closer to the truth about ourselves, others, and the universe. This journey encourages personal growth and deepens our understanding of life.

"A man's life is nothing but this slow and heavy labor of self-forgetfulness."

George Meredith's quote implies that a person's life is a continuous, gradual process of letting go of oneself - one's ego, desires, and self-centeredness - in order to achieve selflessness or enlightenment. This journey is not easy, as it requires persistent effort and patience, but ultimately, the aim is to transcend individuality and achieve a higher state of being or fulfillment.

"The heart that has once known passion, cannot cease loving."

This quote suggests that experiences of deep emotion, particularly passion, leave an indelible mark on the heart. Once a person has experienced such intensity, they carry it with them for life. This doesn't necessarily mean they continue to be in love with the specific individual who ignited their passion, but rather, they remain open to experiencing similar intense feelings. The capacity for deep emotion persists, demonstrating that true love is not easily forgotten or extinguished.