Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
Be thou the first true merit to befriend, his praise is lost who stays till all commend.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Be the first to recognize and befriend true merit; waiting for others to give approval diminishes the value of praise.
This quote by Alexander Pope emphasizes the importance of being proactive in recognizing and supporting those who demonstrate true talent or virtue. By waiting for others to offer their commendations, you may miss the opportunity to uplift and encourage deserving individuals, thereby diluting the praise's significance. In friendship and community, being the first to acknowledge someone's strengths fosters positive relationships and encourages further excellence.
Themes
MeritFriendshipPraiseCommendationSupport
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech recognizing outstanding contributions, one could use this quote to highlight the importance of supporting talent.
More from Alexander Pope
All quotes βWhat dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
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Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
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An honest man's the noblest work of God.
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One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
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Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
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