Our works are the mirror wherein the spirit first sees its natural lineaments, Hence, too, the folly of that impossible precept, Know thyself; till it be translated into this partially possible one, know what thou canst work at.

Summary

This quote emphasizes that our works, or our actions and creations, act as a reflection of who we truly are at our core. It suggests that in order to understand and know ourselves, we should focus on recognizing our abilities and talents, rather than striving for the unattainable goal of complete self-knowledge. By acknowledging our limitations and understanding what we are capable of accomplishing, we can gain insight into our true nature and realize our potential. This quote highlights the importance of self-awareness through self-expression and emphasizes the futility of pursuing an absolute understanding of oneself.

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