Classic Literary Quotes: Analysis and Enduring Relevance
(a) “Crafty Men Condemn Studies…” – Francis Bacon
This line is taken from Francis Bacon’s essay Of Studies, one of his most famous essays. In this essay, Bacon discusses the value, purpose, and practical application of studying or gaining knowledge.
Bacon categorizes people based on how they perceive studies:
Crafty men (clever but cunning) dismiss studies, thinking them useless.
Simple men (uneducated or naïve) admire studies without fully understanding their purpose.
Wise men understand that studies are valuable only when they are applied in real life.
He further explains that studies do not automatically teach their own application; it takes wisdom and judgment to use knowledge effectively in practical situations.
Significance
Encourages a practical approach to education and learning.
Emphasizes that wisdom lies in using knowledge, not just acquiring it.
Bacon presents a balanced and realistic view of the role of studies.
Reflects the Renaissance humanist ideal, where learning is not just for show, but for improving life and society.
Conclusion
This quote remains timeless, reminding us that true education is not just about memorizing facts but about using knowledge wisely and effectively in everyday life.
(b) “Beasts of England, Beasts of Ireland,” – Animal Farm
“Beasts of every land and clime,
Hearken to my joyful tidings,
Of the golden future time.”
These lines are from the song “Beasts of England” in George Orwell’s allegorical novella Animal Farm. The song is introduced by Old Major, a visionary boar, who shares his dream of an animal utopia where all creatures are free from human oppression.
Old Major begins the song by addressing all animals regardless of their region (“land and clime”). He urges them to listen to his message about a “golden future time”—a period of freedom, equality, and peace after overthrowing human tyranny.
Significance
The song becomes a symbol of revolution, equality, and hope.
It unites animals under a common cause.
It reflects the early ideals of socialism/communism, before they are corrupted later in the story.
Orwell uses the song to satirize political propaganda, which often promises a utopia that never arrives.
(c) “Modern Man Remembers Even Telephone Numbers…”
This humorous observation is from Robert Lynd’s essay Forgetting, where he examines the ironies of memory in human life.
Lynd points out that modern people remember vast amounts of trivial or useless information, such as celebrity names or sports figures, but they often forget practical and important things like bringing letters or remembering appointments.
Significance
Highlights the selective nature of memory.
Suggests that people have the capacity to remember, but are distracted by irrelevant information.
Uses wit and irony to draw attention to the absurdities of modern life.
Encourages readers to reflect on their priorities and mental focus.
(d) “Life Is Made Up of Sobs, Sniffles, and Smiles”
This line appears in O. Henry’s short story The Gift of the Magi. It comes near the beginning of the story and sets the tone for the narrative.
The line means that life is a mix of sadness (sobs), small struggles (sniffles), and joy (smiles)—but it’s the struggles that are most common. The story centers on a poor couple, Jim and Della, who face hardship but remain deeply in love.
Significance
Emphasizes the emotional reality of everyday life.
Reflects the modest, sorrowful life of the protagonists.
Adds depth and relatability to the story.
Sets up the story’s main theme: love and sacrifice are more valuable than material wealth.
(e) “If He Be an Unbeliever…” – Newman on Education
This passage is taken from The Idea of a University by John Henry Newman, a 19th-century theologian and academic. The essay explores what a true liberal education should cultivate in an individual.
Explanation
Newman describes the characteristics of a truly educated person—even if such a person does not believe in religion, he will not be disrespectful or hostile toward it. Instead, he will be:
Tolerant and respectful, not mocking others’ beliefs.
Wise and broad-minded, avoiding dogmatism, even in disbelief.
Someone who appreciates the cultural, moral, and aesthetic value of religious institutions, even without personally adhering to them.
Significance
Newman promotes the idea of intellectual humility and mutual respect.
Suggests that a real education should produce not just knowledge, but maturity and tolerance.
Offers a vision of the ideal university graduate—rational, ethical, and open-minded.
A reminder that true liberality is the ability to live with differences without conflict.
(f) “I Have Been Performing Tricks for You, Torvald”
This emotional statement is from Henrik Ibsen’s play A Doll’s House. It is spoken by Nora Helmer, the protagonist, in Act III when she confronts her husband Torvald and declares her decision to leave him.
Explanation
Nora reveals how she has lived her life pretending and performing to please the men around her—first her father (Papa), then her husband (Torvald). She compares herself to a doll in a doll’s house, controlled and shaped by others. Her realization leads to a dramatic transformation as she chooses to reclaim her identity and independence.
Significance
Marks the climax of Nora’s character arc: from a submissive housewife to a self-aware woman.
Criticizes the patriarchal structure of society and the objectification of women.
Reflects Ibsen’s message about women’s rights, identity, and freedom.
A powerful moment in feminist literature, representing the beginning of Nora’s personal revolution.