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Quote by Samuel Butler

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Samuel Butler
Samuel Butler

Samuel Butler was an English author and philosopher, renowned for his satirical novel Erewhon and his philosophical writings. Born on December 4, 1835, he was a prominent figure during the Victorian era, influencing both literature and thought. Butler's most celebrated work, Erewhon, was published in 1872. The novel is a satirical commentary on Victorian society and explores the concept of a utopian society. He also authored several philosophical works, including The Way of All Flesh, which was controversial for its criticism of religion and morality. Butler's contributions to literature and philosophy have had a lasting impact. His satirical style and exploration of complex themes have established him as a significant figure in Victorian literature. Despite his controversial views, he remains celebrated for his intellectual contributions. more

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“Were it possible for us to see further than our knowledge reaches, and yet a little way beyond the outworks of our divinings, perhaps we would endure our sadnesses with greater confidence than our joys. For they are the moments when something new has entered into us, something unknown; our feelings grow mute in shy perplexity, everything in us withdraws, a stillness comes, and the new, which no one knows, stands in the midst of it and is silent.”

“It's where we're nearest to our humanness. Useless knowledge for its own sake. Useful knowledge is good, too, but it's for the faint-hearted, an elaboration of the real thing, which is only to shine some light, it doesn't matter where on what, it's the light itself, against the darkness, it's what's left of God's purpose when you take away God.”

“Journeys up the Metaphoric River are hugely enjoyable and highly recommended. Since every genre is nourished by its heady waters, a paddle steamer can take even the most walk-shy tourists to their chosen destination. As a bonus, there is traditionally at least one murder on board each trip--a "consideration" to the head steward will ensure that it is not you.”