Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall soon flow in inexhaustible streams the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of man! [….] A spring of pure truth shall flow from it! Like a new star, it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a light heretofore unknown to shine among men.
— Johannes Gutenberg
From Dan Knauss via Post Status.
“the darkness of ignorance” – is it about one-star reviewers? 😀
Indeed, the press and writing can bring light to the minds covered with the veil of ignorance. Yet, this is a double edged sword – the same “light” can be used to create illusions and to deceive, to manipulate masses (see the mass media) and to change the course of history. Which already happened and happens as I’m writing this.
So stay cool and do your best to see clearly, see the things as they really are, not as we want them to be 🙂
I’d like to share the complete quotation. One line is missing and I think interpretation is hindered without it.
“Yes, it is a press, certainly, but a press from which shall flow in inexhaustible streams, the most abundant and most marvelous liquor that has ever flowed to relieve the thirst of men! Through it, God will spread His Word. A spring of truth shall flow from it: like a new star it shall scatter the darkness of ignorance, and cause a light heretofore unknown to shine amongst men.”
I had not seen this until today. Thanks for sharing.