Quote by Emily Dickinson
The abdication of belief makes the behavior small -- better an ignis fatuus than no illume at all.
Summary
This quote suggests that when one loses faith or decides not to believe in anything, it diminishes their actions and makes them appear insignificant. It argues that it is preferable to have a false belief or a misleading light (ignis fatuus) than to have no guiding light or illuminating idea at all. The quote deepens the importance of having some form of belief or purpose, even if it may be flawed or illusory, as it provides direction and motivation in life.