"The thirst to know and understand a large and liberal discontent."
About William Watson
William Watson — Life and Legacy
William Watson stands out as a significant voice in the discourse on truth and freedom. His works delve into the complexities of human nature and the societal structures that often constrain individual liberties. Watson's perspective is particularly poignant in his assertion that 'truth is the foundation of freedom,' which encapsulates his belief that without an honest understanding of reality, true freedom cannot be achieved. This idea challenges readers to confront the often uncomfortable truths of their societies and to seek clarity amidst confusion. In his writings, Watson frequently critiques the mechanisms of power that obscure truth, urging individuals to resist complacency and engage actively with the world around them. His thoughts resonate deeply in today's context, where misinformation can easily undermine democratic values and personal freedoms. By advocating for a commitment to truth, Watson not only highlights the importance of transparency but also empowers individuals to reclaim their agency in the face of societal pressures. Ultimately, Watson's quotes and ideas remain relevant as they inspire a generation to prioritize truth as a means of achieving genuine freedom, fostering a more informed and engaged citizenry.
Quote collection
William Watson quotes (page 1 of 2)
25 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"And though circuitous and obscureThe feet of Nemesis how sure!"
"April, April Laugh thy girlish laughter; Then, the moment after, Weep thy girlish tears."
"Hate and mistrust are the children of blindness."
"Empires dissolve and peoples disappear, song passes not away."
"In this world with starry dome,Floored with gemlike plains and seas,Shall I never feel at home,Never wholly be at ease?"
"God, eldest of Poets."
"Deemest thou laborOnly is earnest?Grave is all beauty,Solemn is joy."
"O ye by wandering tempest sown 'Neath every alien star, Forget not whence the breath was blown That wafted you afar! For ye are still her ancient seed On younger soil let fall— Children of Britain's island-breed, To whom the Mother in her need Perchance may one day call."
"Personally, I do not believe that we shall have greater armaments in the future than we have had in the past. On the contrary, I believe there will be a gradual diminution in this respect."
"Braying of arrogant brass, whimper of querulous reeds."
"On from room to room I stray,Yet mine Host can ne'er espy,And I know not to this day,Whether guest or captive I."
"Best they honor thee Who honor in thee only what is best."
"The after-silence, when the feast is o'er,And void the places where the minstrels stood,Differs in nought from what hath been before,And is nor ill nor good."
"He saw wan Woman toil with famished eyes; He saw her bound, and strove to sing her free. He saw her fall'n; and wrote "The Bridge of Sighs"; And on it crossed to immortality."
"Threadbare his songs seem now, to lettered ken: They were worn threadbare next the hearts of men."
"Fiat justitia et ruant coeli. Let justice be done, though the heavens may fall. See Ferdinand I 320:1."
"His friends he loved. His direst earthly foe - Cats-I believe he did but feign to hate. My hand will miss the insinuated nose, Mine eyes the tail that wagged contempt at Fate."
"Song is not Truth, not Wisdom, but the rose Upon Truths lips, the light in Wisdom's eyes."
"We hold our hate too choice a thing, for light and careless lavishing."