There rise authors now and then, who seem proof against the mutability of language, because they have rooted themselves in the unchanging principles of human nature.
Washington IrvingRead
If I can, by a lucky chance, in these uneasy days, rub out one wrinkle from the brow of care, or beguile the heavy heart of one moment of sadness; if I can, how and then, prompt a happier view of human nature, and make my reader more in good humor with his fellow-beings and himself, surely, I shall not have written in vain.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses the desire to alleviate suffering and promote happiness in others through one's writing.
Washington Irving's quote reflects a deep compassion and hope for human connection. He emphasizes the power of literature to soothe troubled minds and uplift spirits during difficult times. By aiming to inspire positivity and understanding among readers, he believes that his writing can serve a meaningful purpose, suggesting that even small acts of kindness can make a difference in people's lives.
Themes
HappinessWritingInspirationCompassionHumanity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the power of literature, one might say this quote to emphasize the writer's role in improving society.
More from Washington Irving
All quotes →There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.
Washington IrvingRead
Sweet is the memory of distant friends! Like the mellow rays of the departing sun, it falls tenderly, yet sadly, on the heart.
Washington IrvingRead
Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.
Washington IrvingRead
The easiest thing to do, whenever you fail, is to put yourself down by blaming your lack of ability for your misfortunes.
Washington IrvingRead
The idol of today pushes the hero of yesterday out of our recollection; and will, in turn, be supplanted by his successor of tomorrow.
Washington IrvingRead
Similar quotes
Before competition, as I stand in shoulder pads and cleats, my helmet in my left hand, adrenaline flowing and my heart raging under my right, I never forget the ills of America, but for a moment I envision its potential, remember its prosperity, and give thanks to God for the land He has placed me in and the people I love who live in it.
Benjamin WatsonRead
I identified in a very deep way with the individuals I was writing about because the theme that runs through this story is of extraordinary hardship and the will to overcome it.
Laura HillenbrandRead
Our country is still young and its potential is still enormous. We should remember, as we look toward the future, that the more fully we believe in and achieve freedom and equal opportunity - not simply for ourselves but for others - the greater our accomplishments as a nation will be.
Henry FordRead
Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.
Desmond TutuRead
He is always doing something--the very best thing, the thing we ourselves would certainly choose if we knew the end from the beginning. He is at work to bring us to our full glory.
Elisabeth ElliotRead
Dreams pass into the reality of action. From the actions stems the dream again; and this interdependence produces the highest form of living.
Anais NinRead