To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
From a child I was fond of reading, and all the little money that came into my hands was ever laid out in books. Pleased with the 'Pilgrim's Progress,' my first collection was of John Bunyan's works in separate little volumes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Benjamin Franklin expresses his lifelong love for reading and the value he places on books from a young age.
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin reflects on his childhood passion for reading and how he dedicated every bit of money he had to acquire books. He shares a nostalgic memory about his first collection of John Bunyan's works, illustrating how books were vital to his development and a source of joy, emphasizing the importance of literature in shaping oneβs character and intellect.
Themes
ReadingBooksEducationKnowledgeLiterature
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of education and lifelong learning.
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[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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