Meaning: The quote "Many a witty inspiration is like the surprising reunion of befriended thoughts after a long separation" by Karl Schlegel captures the essence of creativity and the mysterious nature of inspiration. This quote conjures images of the mind as a repository of interconnected ideas and thoughts that, when brought together, can result in brilliant and surprising insights.

Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel was a German poet, literary critic, and philosopher who was a key figure in the German Romantic movement. He was known for his innovative ideas and profound insights into art, literature, and philosophy. In this quote, Schlegel suggests that the process of creative inspiration is akin to the reunion of long-lost friends – it is a joyful and unexpected coming together of ideas that have been separated for some time.

The metaphor of "befriended thoughts" conveys the idea that ideas and thoughts can form connections and relationships with each other, much like people do. When these "befriended thoughts" reunite, they bring with them a sense of familiarity and comfort, as well as the potential for new and exciting discoveries. Schlegel's comparison of inspiration to the reunion of friends suggests that creativity is not a solitary endeavor, but rather a collaborative and interconnected process.

The notion of "witty inspiration" in the quote also implies that the reunion of befriended thoughts can lead to clever and ingenious insights. The word "witty" suggests a quick and inventive intelligence, and Schlegel's use of this term highlights the idea that inspiration often involves the sudden and unexpected convergence of disparate ideas. This aligns with the Romantic view of creativity as a spontaneous and unpredictable force that transcends rationality and logic.

Moreover, the phrase "after a long separation" implies that the process of creative inspiration may involve a period of gestation or incubation during which ideas may appear to be disconnected or unrelated. However, when these ideas finally come together, they create a powerful and transformative impact. This concept resonates with the idea that creativity often requires time and patience, and that breakthrough moments can emerge from seemingly disparate sources.

In summary, Karl Schlegel's quote encapsulates the enigmatic and dynamic nature of creative inspiration. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of ideas and the surprising, often serendipitous, nature of the creative process. By likening inspiration to the reunion of befriended thoughts after a long separation, Schlegel invites us to consider the mysterious ways in which creativity unfolds and the profound impact it can have.