“This is tantamount to saying, "My hand is weak. I cannot draw a straight line,—that is, a line which will be the shortest line between two given points,—and so, in order to make it more easy for myself, I, intending to draw a straight, will choose for my model a crooked line." The weaker my hand, the greater the need that my model should be perfect.”
Explore This Quote Further
Quote Analysis
In this quote by Leo Tolstoy, the author is emphasizing the importance of having a perfect model or example to follow, especially when faced with challenges or limitations. Tolstoy uses the analogy of drawing a straight line with a weak hand, suggesting that in order to achieve the desired result, one must have a flawless model to guide them. This highlights the idea that when faced with difficulties, it is even more crucial to have a strong foundation or reference point to rely on.
Modern Relevance:
In this quote by Leo Tolstoy, he emphasizes the importance of choosing a strong and perfect model to follow, especially when one's own abilities might be lacking. This concept of seeking the best model to guide our actions is still highly relevant in today's world, where having a strong role model or mentor can greatly impact our success and growth. Let's explore how this idea applies to contemporary society.
Tolstoy's message can be seen as a reminder for individuals to seek out the best examples in order to improve themselves, whether it be in the realm of personal development, career advancement, or relationships. By looking up to those who embody qualities or skills we aspire to have, we can learn from them, be inspired by them, and strive to emulate their success. This can ultimately help us overcome our own weaknesses and limitations, leading us towards greater achievements and fulfillment.
Leo Tolstoy on the Importance of Choosing the Right Model
“This is tantamount to saying, "My hand is weak. I cannot draw a straight line,—that is, a line which will be the shortest line between two given points,—and so, in order to make it more easy for myself, I, intending to draw a straight, will choose for my model a crooked line." The weaker my hand, the greater the need that my model should be perfect.” - Leo Tolstoy
Reflection Questions
When reflecting on the quote by Leo Tolstoy, consider the following questions:
- How do you interpret the concept of using a perfect model to compensate for personal weaknesses or limitations?
- In what areas of your life do you believe you may benefit from choosing a "perfect model" as a guide or inspiration?
- Do you believe that striving for perfection in your models or examples can actually empower you to improve and grow in areas where you feel weak or inadequate?
- How can you actively seek out and utilize "perfect models" in your life to enhance your skills, knowledge, and overall wellbeing?
- What steps can you take to ensure that the models you choose to follow align with your values, goals, and aspirations?
Similar quotes
“There lay between them, separating them, that same terrible line of the unknown and of fear, like the line separating the living from the dead.”
“A straight line is not the shortest distance between two points.”
“The enemy stopped shooting, and that strict, menacing, inaccessible, and elusive line that separates two enemy armies became all the more clearly felt. “One step beyond that line, reminiscent of the line separating the living from the dead, and it’s the unknown, suffering, and death. And what is there? who is there? there, beyond this field, and the tree, and the roof lit by the sun? No one knows, and you would like to know; and you’re afraid to cross that line, and would like to cross it; and you know that sooner or later you will have to cross it and find out what is there on the other side of the line, as you will inevitably find out what is there on the other side of death. And you’re strong, healthy, cheerful, and excited, and surrounded by people just as strong and excitedly animated.” So, if he does not think it, every man feels who finds himself within sight of an enemy, and this feeling gives a particular brilliance and joyful sharpness of impression to everything that happens in those moments.”
“If you consider that a single straight line can be drawn between any two points, one day I'm going to draw a line from him to me or me to him.”
“Third Doctor: A straight line may be the shortest distance between two points, but it is by no means the most interesting”
“One step beyond that boundary line which resembles the line dividing the living from the dead lies uncertainty, suffering, and death. And what is there? Who is there?--there beyond that field, that tree, that roof lit up by the sun? No one knows, but one wants to know. You fear and yet long to cross that line, and know that sooner or later it must be crossed and you will have to find out what is there, just as you will inevitably have to learn what lies the other side of death. But you are strong, healthy, cheerful, and excited, and are surrounded by other such excitedly animated and healthy men.”