The atmosphere is much too near for dreams. It forces us to action. It is close to us. We are in it and of it. It rouses us both to study and to do. We must know its moods and also its motive forces.

In this quote, Cleveland Abbe reflects on the atmosphere as an ever-present and influential force that shapes both our thoughts and actions. He describes the atmosphere as being "much too near for dreams," meaning that it is so intimately connected to our lives that we cannot afford to merely dream or be passive about it. Instead, it compels us to action, urging us to engage with and understand the world around us in a more practical and active way.

Abbe goes on to emphasize that we are not only surrounded by the atmosphere but also fundamentally a part of it, stating that "we are in it and of it." This highlights the interconnectedness between humans and the environment, suggesting that the atmosphere influences our lives in a profound way and that we must understand it to truly comprehend our place in the world. The atmosphere is not something distant or detached, but something integral to our existence.

The quote also touches on the importance of both study and action. Abbe argues that to fully grasp the dynamics of the atmosphere, we must not only observe and understand its moods (like weather patterns) but also comprehend the motive forces driving it, such as atmospheric pressure or wind systems. This call to study and understand the atmosphere is a reflection of scientific inquiry, urging us to take an active role in exploring and learning from the natural world around us.

Ultimately, Abbe’s words convey the idea that the atmosphere is a force that shapes our environment and our actions, pushing us toward understanding and interaction. His quote speaks to the necessity of engagement with the world around us, urging a balance between observation, study, and active involvement in both understanding and addressing the forces that impact our daily lives.