None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
But man's capacities have never been measured; nor are we to judge of what he can do by any precedents, so little have been tried.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the boundless potential of humanity, suggesting that we should not limit our expectations based on past examples.
Henry David Thoreau's quote reflects on the uncharted potential that exists within every individual. It challenges the notion that one's abilities and achievements can be fully understood or constrained by historical precedents. Instead, Thoreau encourages us to recognize the vast possibilities and capacities of human beings, suggesting that many of our capabilities remain untapped and unexplored.
Themes
PotentialCapabilitiesHumanityLimitsBelief
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational seminar, this quote can inspire attendees to push beyond their perceived limits.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes βThrough want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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