We are what we were at birth, and each trait has remained in conformity with earth's and with heaven's logic: Be the devil's tool, resort to black magic, None can diverge from the ends which Heaven foreordained.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Moore suggests human nature is fixed from birth and aligns with cosmic order, implying destiny cannot be escaped.
- In plain terms
- We are born with certain traits and cannot change our ultimate fate.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept that some aspects of life are predetermined.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- To what extent are we shaped by birth?
- Can we truly change our nature?
Another view
The quote ignores the role of free will and personal growth.
More from Marianne Moore
Love, ah Love, when your slipknot's drawn, One can but say, 'Farewell, good sense.'
Permalink to quote #20 The problems is mastered - insupportably tiring when it was impending. Deliverance accounts for what sounds like axiom. The Gordian knot need not be cut.
Permalink to quote #19 Staff and effigy of the animal which by shedding its skin is a sign of renewal - the symbol of medicine.
Permalink to quote #18
Related quotes
There is a Destiny which has the control of our actions, not to be resisted by the strongest efforts of Human Nature.
George WashingtonGeorge Washington quote #3 Are we no greater than the noise we make Along one blind atomic pilgrimage Whereon by crass chance billeted we go Because our brains and bones and cartilage Wi…
Edwin Arlington RobinsonEdwin Arlington Robinson quote #3 Human nature, human nature acts as it acts when it is identified when there is an identity but it is not human nature that has anything to do with that it is t…
Gertrude SteinGertrude Stein quote #23