Meaning: The quote "Truth is tough. It will not break, like a bubble, at the touch, nay, you may kick it about all day like a football, and it will be round and full at evening" by Oliver Holmes, Jr. encapsulates the enduring and resilient nature of truth. Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr. was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1902 to 1932. Known for his eloquence and wisdom, Holmes made significant contributions to American jurisprudence and legal philosophy.

In this quote, Holmes uses vivid imagery to convey the strength and durability of truth. He compares truth to a bubble, emphasizing that it cannot be easily shattered or destroyed upon contact. Unlike a fragile bubble that bursts at the slightest touch, truth remains intact and unyielding. The imagery of kicking truth around like a football further reinforces the idea that truth can withstand challenges and scrutiny. Regardless of how vigorously it is tested or examined, truth retains its integrity and completeness, remaining "round and full at evening."

Holmes' words serve as a reminder of the inherent resilience of truth, highlighting its ability to withstand adversity and remain unchanged despite external pressures. The metaphorical comparison to a football conveys the idea that truth endures through the passage of time and the tumultuous nature of human interactions. It implies that no matter how vigorously truth is contested or debated, it ultimately prevails, retaining its shape and substance.

The quote also suggests that truth is not easily manipulated or distorted. It resists efforts to diminish or alter its fundamental nature. This resilience of truth is particularly relevant in the context of justice and the legal system, where the pursuit of truth is paramount. Holmes, as a distinguished jurist, likely intended this quote to underscore the importance of upholding truth and integrity in the administration of justice.

Furthermore, Holmes' perspective on truth aligns with broader philosophical and ethical considerations. In a world where misinformation and deceit can proliferate, the steadfastness of truth becomes an essential guiding principle. The quote encourages individuals to value and uphold truth, recognizing its unwavering nature and its capacity to withstand the challenges of falsehood and deception.

In conclusion, Oliver Holmes, Jr.'s quote serves as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of truth. Through evocative imagery and eloquent prose, he conveys the unyielding nature of truth, emphasizing its resilience and permanence. This quote continues to resonate as a timeless reminder of the enduring value of truth and its indispensable role in the pursuit of justice, knowledge, and ethical conduct.