I have with me two gods, Persuasion and Compulsion.
ThemistoclesRead
I never learned how to tune a harp, or play upon a lute; but I know how to raise a small and obscure city to glory and greatness...whereto all kindreds of the earth will pilgrim.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True greatness comes from the ability to elevate others and transform a humble place into something remarkable.
In this quote, Themistocles emphasizes that personal skills and talents, such as learning to play an instrument, are less significant compared to the ability to uplift and transform a community. He suggests that his true legacy lies in his capacity to bring grandeur and recognition to a small city, creating a sense of pride that attracts people from all over the world.
Themes
SuccessLegacyCommunityTransformationGreatness
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about urban development, this quote could inspire city planners to focus on community uplift.
More from Themistocles
All quotes →I cannot fiddle, but I can make a great state from a little city.
ThemistoclesRead
I choose the likely man in preference to the rich man; I want a man without money rather than money without a man.
ThemistoclesRead
He who commands the sea has command of everything.
ThemistoclesRead
Similar quotes
One of the things young people always ask me about is what is the secret to success. The secret is there is no secret. It's the basics. Blocking and tackling.
Chris GardnerRead
Touchdowns to me means that you're scoring points and helping your team win games. You can have a lot of yards and not have points and not win games. So, this only means something because it has helped our teams win games and we won the division today in a competitive AFC West, that's a good thing.
Peyton ManningRead
Even a poor man can receive honors.
SophoclesRead
Success is never so interesting as struggle
Willa CatherRead
Those who get the most out of life and those who give the most are those who make the choice to act.
Stephen CoveyRead
Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you're proud to live.
Anne SweeneyRead