I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
James Russell LowellRead
Good luck is the willing handmaid of upright, energetic character, and conscientious observance of duty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Good luck often comes to those who act with integrity, energy, and a strong sense of duty.
James Russell Lowell suggests that luck is not a mere coincidence but is closely tied to oneβs character and actions. People who are upright, energetic, and conscientious tend to create opportunities and positive outcomes for themselves; thus, luck appears to favor those who work diligently and ethically.
Themes
LuckCharacterSuccessDutyIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech to emphasize the importance of hard work.
More from James Russell Lowell
All quotes βThe foolish and the dead alone never change their opinions.
James Russell LowellRead
Not failure, but low aim, is crime.
James Russell LowellRead
Puritanism, believing itself quick with the seed of religious liberty, laid, without knowing it, the egg of democracy.
James Russell LowellRead
Books are the bees which carry the quickening pollen from one to another mind.
James Russell LowellRead
Old events have modern meanings; only that survives of past history which finds kindred in all hearts and lives.
James Russell LowellRead
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My songs are the door to every dream I've ever had and every success I've ever achieved.
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If you succeed not, cast not away the quills yet, nor scratch the wainscot, beat not the poor desk, but bring all to the forge and file again; turn it new.
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The secret of success is making your vocation your vacation.
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