“ it is noble to write as one thinks; this is the privilege of humanity. ”
Voltaire, Candide (1759). copy citation
| Author | Voltaire |
|---|---|
| Source | Candide |
| Topic | writing thinking |
| Date | 1759 |
| Language | English |
| Reference | |
| Note | |
| Weblink | http://www.gutenberg.org/files/19942/19942-h/19942-h.htm |
Context
“
Martin saw some shelves filled with English books. "I have a notion," said he, "that a Republican must be greatly pleased with most of these books, which are written with a spirit of freedom."
"Yes," answered Pococurante, "it is noble to write as one thinks; this is the privilege of humanity. In all our Italy we write only what we do not think; those who inhabit the country of the Cæsars and the Antoninuses dare not acquire a single idea without the permission of a Dominican friar. I should be pleased with the liberty which inspires the English genius if passion and party spirit did not corrupt all that is estimable in this precious liberty."” source
Martin saw some shelves filled with English books. "I have a notion," said he, "that a Republican must be greatly pleased with most of these books, which are written with a spirit of freedom."
"Yes," answered Pococurante, "it is noble to write as one thinks; this is the privilege of humanity. In all our Italy we write only what we do not think; those who inhabit the country of the Cæsars and the Antoninuses dare not acquire a single idea without the permission of a Dominican friar. I should be pleased with the liberty which inspires the English genius if passion and party spirit did not corrupt all that is estimable in this precious liberty."” source
Original quote
Meaning and analysis
