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About this quote

What does it mean?
It suggests that pointless arguments stop when people realize distinctions between things are meaningless.
In plain terms
Stop fighting over details because everything ends up the same.
What can you take from it?
Disputes often end when people see the truth is indifferent.

Where it applies

  • mediating disputes
  • philosophical debate
  • analyzing rhetoric

Putting it to work

  • resolving arguments
  • teaching critical thinking
  • writing satire

Questions to consider

  • When do details matter most in arguments?
  • Is all conflict ultimately pointless?

Another view

The equivalence of geese and swans is hyperbolic and not literally true.

More from Matthew Arnold

  1. Creep into thy narrow bed, Creep, and let no more be said!

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  2. Charge once more, then, and be dumb! Let the victors, when they come, When the forts of folly fall, Find thy body by the wall.

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  3. Ah, love, let us be true To one another! for the world, which seems To lie before us like a land of dreams, So various, so beautiful, so new, Hath really neith…

    Permalink to quote #97

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