Earthshaking fire from the center of the Earth will cause tremors around the New City. Two great rocks will war for a long time, then Arethusa will redden a new river.

Nostradamus' quote, “Earthshaking fire from the center of the Earth will cause tremors around the New City. Two great rocks will war for a long time, then Arethusa will redden a new river,” is a cryptic and symbolic prophecy. The phrase "earthshaking fire" likely refers to a catastrophic event, such as a volcanic eruption or a massive natural disaster originating deep within the Earth. This event causes tremors, symbolizing widespread destruction and chaos, particularly impacting a New City, possibly hinting at a major urban center or a newly established political or cultural hub.

The mention of “two great rocks will war for a long time” could symbolize a long-standing conflict between two powerful forces, potentially referring to political or military rivals. The “great rocks” may represent nations, ideologies, or powers in competition, each vying for control or influence. This ongoing struggle leads to eventual turmoil, perhaps escalating into a protracted and devastating war or crisis. The word “war” here can be interpreted as a metaphor for a battle of ideologies, politics, or territorial disputes.

The reference to Arethusa and the “new river” brings in a mythological and natural element. Arethusa was a figure from Greek mythology associated with water, specifically a river or spring. Her association with reddening a new river may suggest a dramatic transformation in the landscape, possibly symbolizing the creation of a new source of power, or the emergence of a new movement or civilization arising from the aftermath of the earlier chaos. This could represent a reconstruction or rebirth following a period of destruction.

The origin of this quote comes from Nostradamus, a 16th-century French astrologer and seer famous for his cryptic quatrains and prophecies. His writings have been interpreted in many ways, often as predictions about future world events, from political upheaval to natural disasters. The quote reflects Nostradamus' characteristic style of blending symbolism, mythology, and natural phenomena to describe future conflicts and transformations, leaving room for various interpretations.