Weather is a literary specialty, and no untrained hand can turn out a good article on it
Mark TwainRead
Fame is a vapor, popularity an accident; the only earthly certainty is oblivion.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Fame and popularity are fleeting and unreliable, while ultimately, we all face oblivion.
In this quote, Mark Twain reflects on the transient nature of fame and popularity, suggesting that they are not lasting achievements but rather ephemeral states. He emphasizes that, despite the allure of public recognition, the certainty of life is oblivion, reminding us to seek more substantial and enduring purposes in our existence beyond fame and societal approval.
Themes
FamePopularityOblivionTransienceLife
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a graduation speech to remind students about the deeper values in life.
More from Mark Twain
All quotes βThe easy part of being an artist is figuring out the message that everyone else is ready to hear. The hard part is waiting for the proper lull to make the announcement.
Mark TwainRead
You can't reason with your heart; it has its own laws, and thumps about things which the intellect scorns.
Mark TwainRead
To be good is noble; but to show others how to be good is nobler and no trouble.
Mark TwainRead
Name the greatest of all inventors. Accident.
Mark TwainRead
In Paris they just simply opened their eyes and stared when we spoke to them in French! We never did succeed in making those idiots understand their own language.
Mark TwainRead
Similar quotes
As far as you can, get into the habit of asking yourself in relation to any action taken by another: "What is his point of reference here?" But begin with yourself: examine yourself first.
Marcus AureliusRead
I really believe that all of us, as Americans... we all need to be treated like fellow human beings.
John LewisRead
Reality is a staircase going neither up nor down, we don't move; today is today, always is today.
Octavio PazRead
It's not a problem that we're sinners; it's a problem that we aren't ashamed of our sin and don't seek forgiveness.
Pope FrancisRead
It is a great comfort to know that our judge will be none other than our savior.
John StottRead
He is one of those who has had the wilderness for a pillow, and called a star his brother. Alone. But loneliness can be a communion.
Dag HammarskjoldRead