The darkest day in a man's career is that wherein he fancies there is some easier way of getting a dollar than by squarely earning it.
Horace GreeleyRead
Fame is a vapor, popularity an accident, and riches take wings. Only one thing endures and that is character.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True value lies in a person's character, not in fame, popularity, or wealth.
This quote emphasizes the transient nature of fame, popularity, and wealth, suggesting that they are fleeting and unreliable. In contrast, it highlights the importance of character, which is suggested to be the only lasting attribute that defines a person's worth and legacy.
Themes
CharacterFameWealthPopularityEnduring Values
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about personal values during a leadership seminar.
More from Horace Greeley
All quotes →Apathy is a sort of living oblivion.
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I am the inferior of any man whose rights I trample underfoot.
Horace GreeleyRead
Fame is a vapor, popularity is an accident, riches take wings, those who cheer today may curse tomorrow and only one thing endures - character.
Horace GreeleyRead
If you have no family or friends to aid you . . . turn your face to the Great West and there build up your home and fortune.
Horace GreeleyRead
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