"I was like a boy playing on the sea-shore, and diverting myself now and then finding a smoother pebble or a prettier shell than ordinary, whilst the great ocean of truth lay all undiscovered before me"
- Isaac Newton
About this Quote
This quote by Isaac Newton speaks with the concept of exploration and discovery. Newton is comparing himself to a young boy playing on the shore of the sea, getting pebbles and shells that catch his eye. These pebbles and shells represent the discoveries he has made in his life, the knowledge he has gained. Nevertheless, Newton is also acknowledging that there is still a lot more to discover, that the "terrific ocean of reality" lies undiscovered prior to him. This quote talks to the concept that knowledge is unlimited, and that there is always more to find out and discover. Newton is revealing his gratitude for the discoveries he has actually made, while also acknowledging that there is still so much more to check out.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"