"An aphorism ought to be entirely isolated from the surrounding world like a little work of art and complete in itself like a hedgehog"

Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel's quote suggests that an aphorism needs to be self-contained and independent from its context. It needs to resemble a little artwork, with its own distinct appeal and meaning, and ought to have the ability to stand alone without depending on external sources. The metaphor of a hedgehog is utilized to emphasize this idea, as hedgehogs are solitary animals that are self-sufficient and can survive on their own. This quote encourages us to consider aphorisms as specific art pieces, with their own unique beauty and meaning, that can be valued by themselves. It likewise encourages us to think of aphorisms as independent entities, not counting on external sources for their meaning or effect. This quote is a reminder that an aphorism must have the ability to stand alone, without counting on its context or external sources, and must be valued for its own distinct beauty and significance.