"Publication is to thinking as childbirth is to the first kiss"

Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel's quote is a metaphor comparing the act of publishing one's ideas to giving birth. He is suggesting that the act of publishing is the conclusion of a long procedure of thinking, simply as giving birth is the culmination of a long procedure of pregnancy. The contrast of the very first kiss to giving birth is likewise fascinating, as it indicates that the first kiss is the beginning of a brand-new relationship, just as giving birth is the beginning of a new life. This metaphor is a powerful pointer of the importance of both thinking and publishing, as both are needed for the development of something brand-new. It likewise serves as a pointer of the significance of making the effort to think and reflect prior to taking action.