Quote by Robertson Davies, Marchbanks' Al
Wisdom is a variable possession. Every man is wise when pursued by a mad dog, fewer when pursued by a mad woman; only the wisest survive when attacked by a mad notion.
Summary
This quote suggests that wisdom is not a fixed quality but rather depends on the circumstances one faces. It indicates that most people display wisdom when confronted with imminent danger, such as being pursued by a mad dog. However, the quote implies that fewer people exhibit wisdom when faced with difficult situations involving unpredictable behavior, such as a mad woman. Furthermore, it suggests that only the truly wise individuals can navigate and withstand challenging situations when they involve irrational ideas or beliefs, referred to as a "mad notion." Overall, the quote highlights the varying levels of wisdom exhibited by individuals depending on the nature of the threat they encounter.
Topics
Wisdom
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
