To do anything in this world worth doing, we must not stand back shivering and thinking of the cold and danger, but jump in, and scramble through as well as we can.
Sydney SmithRead
The main question to a novel is -- did it amuse? were you surprised at dinner coming so soon? did you mistake eleven for ten? were you too late to dress? and did you sit up beyond the usual hour? If a novel produces these effects, it is good; if it does not -- story, language, love, scandal itself cannot save it. It is only meant to please; and it must do that or it does nothing.
More from Sydney Smith
All quotes →A comfortable house is a great source of happiness. It ranks immediately after health and a good conscience.
Sydney SmithRead
Do not try to push your way through to the front ranks of your profession; do not run after distinctions and rewards; but do your utmost to find an entry into the world of beauty.
Sydney SmithRead
Errors, to be dangerous, must have a great deal of truth mingled with them. It is only from this alliance that they can ever obtain an extensive circulation.
Sydney SmithRead
we know nothing of tomorrow, our business is to be good and happy today
Sydney SmithRead
Find fault when you must find fault in private, and if possible sometime after the offense, rather than at the time.
Sydney SmithRead