He that Goes Back Does

Name: He that Goes Back Does
Author: Fernando Pessoa

The work explores the complexities of existence, thought, and the nature of reality through a series of paradoxes and philosophical reflections. It begins with the assertion that movement, even if it appears regressive, can still signify progress. The act of seeking, regardless of the outcome, is framed as a meaningful endeavor, suggesting that the pursuit of knowledge or understanding holds intrinsic value. The text delves into the concept of "nought," positing that even emptiness or absence can convey significance within the realm of pure thought. This challenges conventional notions of value and existence, indicating that what is often deemed as lacking may possess a deeper truth. The interplay between giving and not giving is examined, suggesting that actions or intentions can carry weight beyond their apparent outcomes. The work further contemplates the nature of truth and error, proposing that mistakes can lead to genuine understanding. This idea complicates the binary of right and wrong, suggesting that the journey of thought is as important as its conclusions. The text questions the validity of labeling the world as false, arguing that existence itself, regardless of its perceived flaws, constitutes a form of being. Throughout the narrative, the author employs a lyrical and philosophical style, inviting readers to engage with the intricacies of thought and existence. The exploration of these themes encourages a reevaluation of how one perceives reality, knowledge, and the self. The work ultimately suggests that the act of contemplation, even when it leads to uncertainty or confusion, is a vital part of the human experience.

By Fernando Pessoa · First published 1928 · Genre: Philosophical Poetry, Existentialism, Lyric Poetry · 170 words

First lines

He that goes back does, since he goes, advance,

Though he doth not advance who goeth back, And he that seeks, though he on nothing chance, May still by words be said to find a lack.

This paradox of having, that is nought In the world's meaning of the things it screens, Is yet true of the substance of pure thought And there means something by the nought it means.

For thinking nought does on nought being confer, As giving not is acting not to give, And, to the same unbribed true thought, to err Is to find truth, though by its negative.

What this Textopian page supports

He that Goes Back Does is listed on Textopian as a poem by Fernando Pessoa, dated 1928 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Fernando Pessoa
Date: 1928 CE
Language: English
Genres: Philosophical Poetry, Existentialism, Lyric Poetry, Metaphysical Poetry, Modernist Poetry
Length: 170 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Philosophical Poetry — The work explores complex philosophical themes and paradoxes, characteristic of philosophical poetry.
Existentialism — The themes of existence, meaning, and the nature of reality align with existentialist thought.
Lyric Poetry — The personal and introspective nature of the language reflects the qualities of lyric poetry.
Metaphysical Poetry — The exploration of abstract concepts and the relationship between thought and reality is typical of metaphysical poetry.