Quote of the day, April 17 -- "The title of this trilogy is derived from lines in Paradise Lost by John Milton, which are used in the front piece of Northern Lights" - George Mortimer Pullman

George Mortimer Pullman's quote is not ornamental, it highlights a deeper truth about the disconnect between what people profess to believe and how they actually behave. Its impact comes from lived experience rather than abstract thinking. Pullman's observation reflects years of careful attention, not a neatly packaged idea meant for easy appeal.

Pullman's early career offers insight into how his perspective evolved. After taking over his father's business, he gained recognition in 1856 when he secured a contract with the State of New York to reloc...