There are ideal series of events which run parallel with the real ones. They rarely coincide. Men and circumstances generally modify the ideal train of events, so that it seems imperfect, and its consequences are equally imperfect. Thus with the Reformation; instead of Protestantism came Lutheranism.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Ideal plans often diverge from reality due to human and circumstantial interference, leading to imperfect outcomes.
- In plain terms
- Perfect sequences of events rarely happen as planned because people and situations change them.
- What can you take from it?
- Expect deviations from your ideal plans in real life.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How often do your plans change unexpectedly?
- What counts as an imperfect outcome?
Another view
Not all deviations are due to modification; some are random or external.
More from Novalis
I was still blind, but twinkling stars did dance Throughout my being's limitless expanse, Nothing had yet drawn close, only at distant stages I found myself, a…
Permalink to quote #2 Wahrhafte Anarchie ist das Zeugungselement der Religion. Aus der Vernichtung alles Positiven hebt sie ihr glorreiches Haupt als neue Weltstifterin empor...
Permalink to quote #3 Blood will stream over Europe until the nations become aware of the frightful madness which drives them in circles. And then, struck by celestial music and mad…
Permalink to quote #4
Related quotes
Everything takes me longer than I expect. It's the sad truth about life.
Donna TarttDonna Tartt quote #9 To swallow gudgeons ere they're catched, And count their chickens ere they're hatched.
Samuel ButlerSamuel Butler quote #16 Vanity: 'Architects of grandeur are often the master builders of disillusionment.'
Bryant McGillBryant McGill quote #57