Motion
Motion - meaning Summary
Debating Motion and Perception
Pushkin’s short poem stages a witty reply to a philosophical denial of motion. A bearded sage declares motion false; another simply walks, and observers treat that act as refutation. The speaker then reframes the scene: everyday appearances (the sun’s apparent motion) can mislead, and scientific insight (Galileo) may vindicate reality over common sense. The poem contrasts immediate perception with tested knowledge through a light, ironic anecdote.
Read Complete AnalysesOne bearded sage concluded: there's no motion. Without a word, another walked before him. He couldn’t answer better; all adored him And all agreed that he disproved that notion. But one can see it all in a different light, For me, another funny thought comes into play: We watch the sun move all throughout the day And yet the stubborn Galileo had it right. Translated by Andrey Kneller
Feel free to be first to leave comment.