They are few in the midst of an overwhelming mass of brute force, and their submission is wisdom but for a nation like England to submit to be robbed by any invader who chooses to visit her shores seemed to me to be nonsense.

Meaning

At its core, the quote expresses a belief about wisdom. It implies that reflection reveals deeper truths, and invites reflection on we learn from our experiences.

Theme

As a foundational human concern, wisdom appears in many sayings. It matters because people seek clarity and insight, and this quote reminds us that every moment can teach something.

About the Author

Many popular reflections are credited to George Combe, including this one. Their words often comment on themes like wisdom.

Style and Structure

The wording is short yet layered. The contrast between expectation and reality adds depth.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
reflection reveals deeper truths.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about wisdom, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we learn from our experiences.