But now I have come to believe that the whole world is an enigma, a harmless enigma that is made terrible by our own mad attempt to interpret it as though it had an underlying truth.

Meaning

This quote articulates a concise principle related to wisdom. It hints that reflection reveals deeper truths and reminds us that mistakes teach valuable lessons.

Theme

The theme of wisdom appears frequently in reflections and literature. People return to it because wisdom guides important decisions. Quotes on this topic often remind us that listening brings understanding.

About the Author

The name Umberto Eco appears in collections of familiar quotations. Their phrases often explore ideas tied to wisdom.

Style and Structure

The quote builds on a contrast between expectation and reality, giving it emotional and intellectual impact.

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.