I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
James Russell LowellRead
It may be glorious to write Thoughts that shall glad the two or three High souls, like those far stars that come in sight Once in a century.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the rarity and significance of impactful thoughts that resonate deeply with a select few.
James Russell Lowell expresses the idea that while many may strive for recognition, the true glory lies in crafting thoughts that profoundly touch the hearts and minds of a small number of remarkable individuals. Just as rare stars appear only once in a century, such thoughts can illuminate the lives of those fortunate enough to encounter them, making them invaluable despite their scarcity.
In practice
This quote could be shared during a literary discussion to emphasize the value of meaningful writing.
I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
The foolish and the dead alone never change their opinions.
Not failure, but low aim, is crime.
Good luck is the willing handmaid of upright, energetic character, and conscientious observance of duty.
Puritanism, believing itself quick with the seed of religious liberty, laid, without knowing it, the egg of democracy.
Books are the bees which carry the quickening pollen from one to another mind.
After his great awakening, the Buddha continued to meditate and to devote himself to others; otherwise his vision would have receded into a pleasant memory.
Having a large amount of leverage is like driving a car with a dagger on the steering wheel pointed at your heart. If you do that, you will be a better driver. There will be fewer accidents but when they happen, they will be fatal.
All we need is a meteorologist who has once been soaked to the skin without ill effect. No one can write knowingly of the weather who walks bent over on wet days.
Always be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.
What we know matters but who we are matters more.
Work organizes life. It gives structure and discipline to life.
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