To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
A little neglect may breed great mischief. ... For want of a nail, the shoe was lost; for want of a shoe, the horse was lost; for want of a horse, the battle was lost; for want of the battle, the war was lost.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Neglecting small details can lead to significant negative consequences.
This quote by Benjamin Franklin illustrates the idea that minor oversights can accumulate and result in disastrous outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of paying attention to details and not underestimating the significance of seemingly small elements in a larger context, as they can determine the success or failure of a situation.
Themes
NeglectConsequencesDetailsWisdomOversight
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about project management, one could say, 'As Benjamin Franklin wisely noted, A little neglect may breed great mischief.'
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes →He'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
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Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
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Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
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I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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