The eye- it cannot choose but see; we cannot bid the ear be still; our bodies feel, where'er they be, against or with our will.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Our senses constantly take in information regardless of whether we want to see, hear, or feel what is around us.
- In plain terms
- You cannot stop your eyes, ears, or body from feeling things around you.
- What can you take from it?
- Accept that senses perceive reality constantly.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can you stop your senses?
- How do you manage what you see?
Another view
People can learn to filter sensory input over time.
More from William Wordsworth
Have I not reason to lament What man has made of man?
Permalink to quote #92 Nor less I deem that there are Powers Which of themselves our minds impress; That we can feed this mind of ours In a wise passiveness.
Permalink to quote #94 In that sweet mood when pleasant thoughts Bring sad thoughts to the mind.
Permalink to quote #91
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