Get Started
Home Authors Tags

"En la cima de las montañas más altas de la verdad, todos somos ciegos por la nieve."

Fernando Pessoa
Fernando Pessoa Poet
Translations
🇺🇸 English 🇨🇳 中文 🇪🇸 Español 🇪🇬 العربية 🇫🇷 Français 🇮🇷 فارسی 🇯🇵 日本語
Quote meaning
We often think that when we reach the peak of our search for truth, everything will be clear. But here's the kicker: sometimes, the higher you go, the less you actually see. The dazzling brightness at the top can make you as blind as a snowstorm.

This idea isn't new. It's been around in various forms for centuries. Philosophers and thinkers have often pointed out that the more knowledge we gain, the more we realize how little we actually understand. This concept can be traced back to Socrates, who famously declared, "I know that I know nothing." He wasn’t being ironic. The more he delved into the complexities of life and existence, the more he became aware of the vastness of what he didn’t know.

Imagine climbing Mount Everest. You train for years, gather the best gear, and make the perilous ascent. After countless struggles and near-misses, you finally make it to the top. But instead of the breathtaking view you expected, you’re hit with a blinding storm. You can’t see a thing. It's a disorienting realization—sometimes the pursuit of ultimate truth leaves us more confused than when we began.

Take the example of scientific research. Researchers might start with a clear hypothesis. But as they dig deeper, they uncover layers of complexity they hadn't anticipated. Let’s say a scientist is studying climate change. They might begin with the straightforward idea that carbon emissions are the culprit. But soon, they discover a web of interrelated factors: ocean currents, deforestation, soil health, and even socioeconomic issues. Each discovery opens up more questions, making the ultimate truth more elusive. The closer they get to the top of their "mountain," the more blindingly complex the truth becomes.

So, how do you apply this idea to your life? First, embrace humility. Understand that reaching the top isn't always about getting clear answers. It's about appreciating the journey and the complexities you uncover along the way. Stay curious. Keep asking questions, and don't get discouraged by the blinding light at the top. It’s a sign that you’re pushing boundaries.

Let’s make it more relatable. Think about a personal goal, like mastering a new skill. Maybe you're learning to play the guitar. At first, you just want to strum a few chords and maybe play a song or two. As you get better, you start exploring different genres, techniques, and music theory. Suddenly, you realize there's so much more to learn than you ever imagined. The "truth" of becoming a great guitarist isn't a single skill or piece of knowledge—it's a vast, intricate landscape. The higher you climb in your abilities, the more you see the depth and breadth of what’s out there.

In the end, remember that being "snow blind" at the top of the mountain isn't a failure. It's a part of the journey. It's a sign that you're pushing your limits and diving deep into the complexities of life. So keep climbing, stay curious, and don’t be afraid of a little snow blindness. It means you're on the right path.
Related tags
Blindness Enlightenment Mountains Nature Perception Perspective Philosophy Snow Truth Wisdom
MORE QUOTES BY Fernando Pessoa
FEATURED QUOTES
Surprise me with another quote
Instagram Icon Facebook Icon X Icon Threads Icon