The quote “All isolation is wrong so say the herd. And long didst thou belong to the herd.” is a critique of conformist thinking and the fear of individualism. The ‘herd’ here symbolizes the masses or the majority who often follow a set path or ideology without questioning it. They view ‘isolation’, or individuality and divergence from the group, as something wrong or undesirable. The second sentence implies that the person being addressed has spent a considerable time as part of this conformist ‘herd’.

This quote challenges the idea that conformity is always right and isolation is always wrong. It encourages embracing individuality and breaking away from the herd mentality. It invites one to question the norms, values, and beliefs that are often taken for granted or followed blindly.

In today’s world, this idea is highly relevant. Society often pressures individuals to conform to certain standards or norms, be it in terms of career choices, lifestyle, or even personal beliefs. This quote can be a reminder that it’s okay to step away from the crowd and forge your own path. It’s okay to have different opinions, to question commonly accepted beliefs, and to be ‘isolated’ in the sense of being unique or individual.

In terms of personal development, this quote can inspire one to value their individuality and not to fear being different or standing alone. It encourages personal growth through self-exploration, independent thinking, and the courage to challenge the status quo. It suggests that true growth and fulfillment come from understanding and embracing one’s unique identity, rather than simply fitting in with the herd.