Bodily decay is gloomy in prospect, but of all human contemplations the most abhorrent is body without mind.
Thomas JeffersonRead
Monuments! what are they? the very pyramids have forgotten their builders, or to whom they were dedicated. Deeds, not stones, are the true monuments of the great.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True greatness is measured by actions rather than physical memorials.
In this quote, John Lothrop Motley emphasizes the transient nature of physical monuments, such as pyramids, which even history forgets over time. He suggests that the true legacy of a person lies in their deeds and contributions to society, rather than the stone structures that might commemorate them. The essence of greatness is found in the impact one has made in the world, which outlasts any monument created in their honor.
Themes
GreatnessLegacyDeedsMonumentsImpact
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech at a memorial service, one might use this quote to highlight the importance of actions over accolades.
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