None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Why should we be in such desperate haste to succeed, and in such desperate enterprises? If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Success should not be pursued at the expense of one's individuality and personal rhythm.
In this quote, Thoreau reflects on the nature of success and the societal pressures to conform to a particular standard of achievement. He suggests that individuals may operate at different paces and that one should not rush into pursuits simply to align with others, as true fulfillment lies in listening to one's own unique path and perspective.
Themes
SuccessIndividualityPaceHappinessAchievement
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about the importance of following one's own dreams.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes βThrough want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
Henry David ThoreauRead
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
Henry David ThoreauRead
As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
Henry David ThoreauRead
That grand old poem called Winter
Henry David ThoreauRead
Similar quotes
May your choices reflect your hopes, not your fears.
Nelson MandelaRead
The misfortune of the wise is better than the prosperity of the fool.
EpicurusRead
It is of great use to the sailor to know the length of his line, though he cannot with it fathom all the depths of the ocean.
John LockeRead
Self-conceit may lead to self destruction.
AesopRead
The advice of the elders to young men is very apt to be as unreal as a list of the hundred best books.
Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.Read
Strenuous intellectual work and the study of God's Nature are the angels that will lead me through all the troubles of this life with consolation, strength, and uncompromising rigor.
Albert EinsteinRead