"In sheer genius Pascal ranks among the very greatest writers who have lived upon this earth. And his genius was not simply artistic; it displayed itself no less in his character and in the quality of his thought"

Lytton Strachey's quote is a profound acknowledgment of Blaise Pascal's complex genius, acknowledging not just his literary prowess but also the depth of his intellectual and moral character. Strachey starts by asserting Pascal's place among the "extremely biggest authors who have actually lived upon this earth", instantly placing him in an elite class of historic literary figures. This assertion highlights Pascal's exceptional command over language and his capability to express complex ideas with clearness and elegance.

Nevertheless, Strachey does not restrict Pascal's genius to his literary skill alone. By stating that Pascal's genius "was not just creative", he acknowledges that Pascal's sparkle transcended simple art for art's sake. This breadth of genius appears in the diverse fields Pascal affected, including mathematics, physics, viewpoint, and theology. Pascal's contributions, such as Pascal's Triangle in mathematics and his fundamental deal with likelihood theory, highlight his intellectual versatility.

Strachey likewise indicates the "character and the quality of his thought" as essential to comprehending Pascal's genius. This dimension reflects Pascal's introspective nature and his deep engagement with philosophical and spiritual concerns, which appear in works like the "Pensées". In these pieces, Pascal comes to grips with existential questions and doctrinal reflections, showcasing a mind that is not only analytical however likewise philosophical and reflective. His expedition of themes such as the human condition and the limits of factor underscores the extensive quality of his thought, which is both strenuous and reflective.

Ultimately, Strachey's quote encapsulates a holistic view of Pascal as a private whose genius penetrates his writing, intellectual contributions, and character. This thorough genius is rare and places Pascal in a classification of timeless influence, resonating across disciplines and centuries.