Let faith oust fact; let fancy oust memory; I look deep down and do believe.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The essence of the quote "Let faith oust fact; let fancy oust memory; I look deep down and do believe" encapsulates a profound insight into the human experience and the nature of belief. At its core, the quote speaks to the power of faith and imagination in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.
The first part of the quote, "Let faith oust fact," suggests a departure from relying solely on empirical evidence or logical reasoning to comprehend reality. It acknowledges that there are aspects of life and existence that transcend the confines of measurable facts and observable phenomena. Faith, in this context, represents a belief in something beyond what can be proven or explained empirically—a trust in the unseen and the unknown.
By urging us to let faith oust fact, the quote encourages us to embrace a worldview that is not limited by the constraints of scientific or rational inquiry alone. It invites us to explore the realm of possibilities that lie beyond the boundaries of what we can perceive with our senses or understand with our intellect.
The second part of the quote, "let fancy oust memory," emphasizes the role of imagination and creativity in shaping our perceptions and interpretations of the world. Memory, while crucial for retaining knowledge and experiences, can also anchor us to the past and limit our capacity to envision new possibilities. Fancy, on the other hand, represents the imaginative faculty that allows us to transcend the constraints of memory and envision alternative realities.
By advocating for fancy to oust memory, the quote suggests that we should not be bound by the limitations of past experiences or conventional thinking. Instead, it encourages us to embrace the imaginative potential within ourselves and dare to dream beyond the confines of what we already know or have experienced.
Ultimately, the quote culminates in the affirmation, "I look deep down and do believe." Here, the speaker acknowledges the depth of their conviction and the power of their innermost beliefs. It reflects a profound sense of introspection and self-awareness—a recognition of the inner truths that reside within each of us.
In essence, the quote serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, imagination, and belief. It invites us to transcend the boundaries of empirical evidence and memory, and to delve into the depths of our own consciousness in search of deeper truths and greater understanding. In doing so, it encourages us to cultivate a sense of wonder, curiosity, and openness to the mysteries of existence that lie beyond the realm of mere facts and memories.
Who said the quote?
The quote "Let faith oust fact; let fancy oust memory; I look deep down and do believe." is often attributed to Herman Melville (Quotes). Herman Melville authored "Moby-Dick," a timeless exploration of obsession and the human condition.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
