I have used these weeks to revalue values. Do you understand this expression? When you come right down to it, the alchemist is the most praiseworthy of men: I mean the one who changes something negligible or contemptible into something of value, even gold. He alone enriches, the others merely exchange. My task is quite singular this time: I have asked myself what mankind has always hated, feared, and despised the most

Summary

This quote suggests that the speaker has taken time to reflect on their values and beliefs. They believe that the true sign of being praiseworthy is not simply exchanging one thing for another, but rather transforming something insignificant or despised into something valuable, like an alchemist turning base metals into gold. The speaker expresses their unique task of questioning what humans have consistently detested or feared throughout history. Overall, it implies a deep introspection on the essence of worth and the role of transformation in society.

Topics