Meaning: The quote "The Moon! Artemis! the great goddess of the splendid past of men! Are you going to tell me she is a dead lump?" is a passionate expression by the renowned English writer D.H. Lawrence. In this quote, Lawrence is invoking the ancient Greek goddess Artemis, who was often associated with the moon in Greek mythology. The quote reflects Lawrence's awe and reverence for the natural world, as well as his resistance to the idea of seeing the moon as a lifeless, inert object.

D.H. Lawrence was a prolific and controversial writer known for his novels, poetry, essays, and travel writings. He was deeply interested in the complexity of human emotions and relationships, and his works often explored themes of nature, sexuality, and the human psyche. Lawrence's writing was characterized by its vivid imagery, emotional intensity, and a profound connection to the natural world.

In the quote, Lawrence's use of exclamation marks and rhetorical questions conveys a sense of incredulity and defiance. By addressing the moon as "Artemis," he draws on the ancient mythological significance of the celestial body, connecting it to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of humanity. Lawrence's invocation of Artemis as "the great goddess of the splendid past of men" suggests a longing for a time when the natural world was more deeply revered and celebrated.

Furthermore, the phrase "dead lump" is a striking and evocative description that challenges the notion of the moon as an inanimate and lifeless object. Lawrence's choice of words highlights his belief in the inherent vitality and significance of the moon, rejecting the idea that it is merely a cold and barren rock in space.

This quote can be interpreted as a reflection of Lawrence's broader philosophical and spiritual outlook. Throughout his body of work, Lawrence expressed a deep sense of kinship with nature and a belief in the interconnectedness of all living things. His writing often celebrated the primal and untamed aspects of the natural world, portraying it as a source of inspiration and spiritual sustenance.

In the context of the early 20th century, when scientific exploration of the cosmos was expanding, Lawrence's quote can also be seen as a reaction against the growing tendency to view the natural world in purely mechanistic and materialistic terms. By personifying the moon as Artemis and challenging the notion of its lifelessness, Lawrence asserts the enduring power of myth, symbolism, and the human imagination in shaping our understanding of the world around us.

In conclusion, D.H. Lawrence's quote "The Moon! Artemis! the great goddess of the splendid past of men! Are you going to tell me she is a dead lump?" encapsulates his deep reverence for the natural world and his resistance to reductionist perspectives. Through his passionate and evocative language, Lawrence invites readers to reconsider their relationship with the moon and, by extension, with the broader natural world. The quote serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring significance of myth, symbolism, and our emotional connection to the cosmos.