Slaves sing most when they are most unhappy. The songs of the slave represent the sorrows of his heart; and he is relieved by them, only as an aching heart is relieved by its tears.
Frederick DouglassRead
I do not think much of the good luck theory of self-made men. It is worth but little attention and has no practical value.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Frederick Douglass argues that the idea of self-made success being attributed to luck is misguided and lacks meaningful relevance.
In this quote, Frederick Douglass emphasizes his skepticism towards the notion that success is primarily due to good luck. He suggests that attributing achievements to chance diminishes the hard work and effort that self-made individuals invest in achieving their goals. Douglass highlights that success should be seen as a product of determination, perseverance, and skill rather than mere fortune, thus challenging societal attitudes that overlook the true nature of success.
Themes
SuccessLuckSelf-MadeHard WorkDetermination
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about entrepreneurship.
More from Frederick Douglass
All quotes βWe may explain success mainly by one word and that word is WORK! WORK!! WORK!!! WORK!!!!
Frederick DouglassRead
To suppress free speech is a double wrong. It violates the rights of the hearer as well as those of the speaker.
Frederick DouglassRead
The Constitution is a GLORIOUS LIBERTY DOCUMENT. Read its preamble, consider it purposes. Is slavery among them? Is it at the gateway? or is it in the temple? it is neither.
Frederick DouglassRead
Find out just what any people will quietly submit to and you have the exact measure of the injustice and wrong which will be imposed on them.
Frederick DouglassRead
A great man, tender of heart, strong of nerve, boundless patience and broadest sympathy, with no motive apart from his country.
Frederick DouglassRead
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Without Arthur's voice, I never would have enjoyed that success.
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