“ Man's active nature, flagging, seeks too soon the level; Unqualified repose he learns to crave ”
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Faust (1808). copy citation
| Author | Johann Wolfgang von Goethe |
|---|---|
| Source | Faust |
| Topic | learning craving |
| Date | 1808 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | Translated by Bayard Taylor |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/14591/14591-h/14591-h.htm |
Context
“As did a certain snake, my near relation.
THE LORD
Therein thou'rt free, according to thy merits;
The like of thee have never moved My hate.
Of all the bold, denying Spirits,
The waggish knave least trouble doth create.
Man's active nature, flagging, seeks too soon the level;
Unqualified repose he learns to crave;
Whence, willingly, the comrade him I gave,
Who works, excites, and must create, as Devil.
But ye, God's sons in love and duty,
Enjoy the rich, the ever-living Beauty!
Creative Power, that works eternal schemes,”
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