Meaning: The quote "To give reason for fancy were to weigh the fire, and measure the wind" by John Lyly, a 16th-century English writer, reflects the idea that attempting to rationalize or explain the workings of imagination and creativity is as futile as trying to measure intangible or uncontrollable forces. John Lyly was a prominent figure in the English Renaissance literature, known for his plays and prose works, and this quote captures the essence of the era's fascination with the complexities of human emotion and imagination.

In the context of the quote, "fancy" refers to the imaginative and creative faculties of the mind. Lyly suggests that trying to provide a logical explanation for the workings of the imagination is akin to attempting to measure or quantify natural elements like fire and wind, which are inherently unpredictable and uncontainable. The quote is a testament to the belief that the realm of creativity and imagination operates beyond the confines of reason and cannot be fully understood or constrained by rationality.

John Lyly's works often explored themes of love, desire, and the irrational nature of human emotions. His writing style was characterized by elaborate prose and intricate wordplay, and he was influential in shaping the development of English literature during the Renaissance. In the quote, Lyly captures the essence of the creative process and the elusive nature of inspiration, emphasizing that attempting to impose reason and logic on the workings of the imagination is an exercise in futility.

The quote can also be interpreted as a commentary on the limitations of human understanding. Throughout history, philosophers, artists, and scholars have grappled with the enigmatic nature of creativity and its relationship to reason. Lyly's quote serves as a reminder that there are aspects of human experience that defy rational explanation and must be embraced for their inherent mystery and wonder.

Furthermore, the quote can be seen as a celebration of the unfettered nature of creativity. By likening the imaginative process to unmeasurable natural forces, Lyly underscores the idea that creativity cannot be confined or restricted by the boundaries of reason. It is a force that operates independently, often defying logical explanation and transcending conventional understanding.

In summary, John Lyly's quote "To give reason for fancy were to weigh the fire, and measure the wind" encapsulates the intrinsic relationship between creativity and irrationality. It conveys the idea that attempting to rationalize or confine the workings of the imagination is as futile as trying to control elemental forces. The quote serves as a poignant reminder of the enigmatic and untamable nature of human creativity, urging us to embrace the mystery and wonder of the imaginative process.