Nobody holds a good opinion of a man who has a low opinion of himself.
Anthony TrollopeRead
A farmer's horse is never lame, never unfit to go. Never throws out curbs, never breaks down before or behind. Like his master he is never showy. He does not paw and prance, and arch his neck, and bid the world admire his beauties...and when he is wanted, he can always do his work.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote illustrates the value of practicality and reliability over showmanship and vanity.
In this quote, Anthony Trollope emphasizes the importance of being dependable and practical rather than seeking admiration or recognition for superficial qualities. The farmer's horse symbolizes a reliable workhorse, exemplifying the ideal that true worth lies in one's ability to perform and contribute consistently without the need for ostentation. Trollope contrasts this with showy behaviors, suggesting that those who are genuinely capable do not need to boast or seek validation, as their effectiveness speaks for itself.
Themes
ReliabilityWorkPracticalityHumilityEffectiveness
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about teamwork, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of dependable members over flamboyant show-offs.
More from Anthony Trollope
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There is no happiness in love, except at the end of an English novel.
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That I can read and be happy while I am reading, is a great blessing.
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A man's love, till it has been chastened and fastened by the feeling of duty which marriage brings with it, is instigated mainly by the difficulty of pursuit.
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But she knew this,—that it was necessary for her happiness that she should devote herself to some one. All the elegancies and outward charms of life were delightful, if only they could be used as the means to some end. As an end themselves they were nothing.
Anthony TrollopeRead
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