”To run upon better waters now hoists sail the little vessel of my genius,
leaving behind itself a sea so cruel“
- Meaning
- This metaphorical phrase means that the author (Dante) is ready to begin a new phase of his journey, leaving behind the gruesome Hell and heading towards Purgatory, which represents a path of redemption and hope towards salvation. The "little vessel of my genius" represents the poet's creative mind, whose intellectual and spiritual journey now rises to a higher and more serene level.
- Allegory
- The allegorical image depicts a boat in calm waters, symbolizing the new phase of serenity and hope in Dante's journey. The serene figure guiding the boat represents wisdom and guidance. The stormy waters in the background symbolize the difficult past (Hell) being left behind. The bright, blue sky ahead symbolizes a new beginning and spiritual progress. The white clouds moved by the breeze symbolize purity and hope, contributing to an atmosphere of tranquility and optimism. Together, these elements visualize the journey of transformation and redemption outlined in Dante's quote.
- Applicability
- The meaning of this phrase can be applied in personal life as a representation of the importance of leaving behind negative and difficult experiences to seek better and more peaceful opportunities. Additionally, it symbolizes the necessity to maintain a positive outlook and to progress despite past difficulties, continually seeking improvement and personal growth.
- Impact
- This phrase, like many others from the Divine Comedy, has had a profound impact on literature, theology, and Western culture. It has inspired countless commentaries, translations, and adaptations. The Divine Comedy is studied worldwide and has influenced many subsequent poets and writers. It is often cited in contexts regarding personal growth and redemption.
- Historical Context
- The Divine Comedy was written at the beginning of the 14th century, with its completion likely around 1320. Dante wrote this work while in political exile from Florence. Purgatory, as narrated in the work, represents the second realm of the afterlife and symbolizes a state of purification and transition, where souls cleanse themselves of sins before ascending to Paradise.
- Criticisms
- The phrase itself has not been subject to particular controversies or criticisms, except within the realm of varying scholarly interpretations of the work over the centuries. However, some debates have arisen regarding Dante's representation of historical and mythological figures, as well as his theological and political views.
- Variations
- The quote does not have significant direct variations, but the theme of a journey of personal transformation is present in many cultures. For example, in Buddhism, the journey toward enlightenment and detachment from earthly suffering reflects a similar transformation.
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In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.
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In His will is our peace.
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Your will is free, upright, and whole; henceforth, you act according to its discretion. Therefore, I crown and mitre you over yourself.
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And then we emerged to see the stars again.
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Infinite goodness has such wide arms, that it embraces all that turns to it.
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You were not made to live like brutes, but to follow virtue and knowledge.
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Love, which absolves no loved one from loving, seized me so strongly with his charm that, as you see, it does not leave me even now.
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Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.
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And just as someone who, with laboring breath, has escaped the sea to reach the shore, turns back to gaze at the perilous waters.
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"Through me the way is to the city of woe, through me the way is to eternal pain, through me the way among the lost people."
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And I: 'Master, what is so heavy that it makes them lament so strongly?'.
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