Genuine good taste consists in saying much in few words, in choosing among our thoughts, in having order and arrangement in what we say, and in speaking with composure.
Francois FenelonRead
If the crowns of all the kingdoms of the empire were laid down at my feet in exchange for my books and my love of reading I would spurn them all.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the value of knowledge and passion for reading over material wealth and power.
Francois Fenelon's quote illustrates the idea that a deep love for books and the knowledge they provide far outweighs any desire for wealth or power, represented by crowns. It reflects the belief that intellectual and personal fulfillment derived from reading and learning is more valuable than the most prestigious positions in society, highlighting the importance of wisdom and personal passion in one's life.
Themes
KnowledgeReadingBooksWisdomValue
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of education and personal growth, this quote could serve as a powerful testament to the value of reading.
More from Francois Fenelon
All quotes →True prayer is only another name for the love of God. Its excellence does not consist in the multitude of our words; for our Father knoweth what things we have need of before we ask Him. The true prayer is that of the heart, and the heart prays only for what it desires. To pray, then is to desire -- but to desire what God would have us desire. He who asks what he does not from the bottom of his heart desire, is mistaken in thinking that he prays.
Francois FenelonRead
The greatest of all crosses is self. If we die in part every day, we shall have but little to do on the last. These little daily deaths will destroy the power of the final dying.
Francois FenelonRead
How rare it is to find a soul quiet enough to hear God speak.
Francois FenelonRead
If we were faultless we should not be so much annoyed by the defects of those with whom we associate.
Francois FenelonRead
You can often help others more by correcting your own faults than theirs. Remember, and you should, because of your own experience, that allowing God to correct your faults is not easy. Be patient with people, wait for God to work with them as He wills.
Francois FenelonRead
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