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About this quote

What does it mean?
The author mocks the idea of missionaries reaching the moon while neglecting to civilize Earth itself.
In plain terms
People focus on impossible tasks while ignoring problems right here.
What can you take from it?
Fix local issues before chasing distant ones.

Where it applies

  • religious debates
  • social reform
  • political satire

Putting it to work

  • prioritize local action
  • question grand plans

Questions to consider

  • Where do you seek meaning?
  • What local needs are ignored?

Another view

The term pagan planet reflects outdated colonial views.

More from Herman Melville

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  2. I had now been on board the frigate upward of a year, and remained unscourged; the ship was homeward-bound, and in a few weeks, at most, I would be a free man.…

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  3. We Americans are the peculiar, chosen people - the Israel of our time; we bear the ark of the liberties of the world.

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