None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Nothing goes by luck in composition. It allows of no tricks. The best you can write will be the best you are.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Success in writing is a reflection of one's true self and dedication to the craft.
Henry David Thoreau emphasizes that luck plays no role in the art of writing; rather, it is the writer's skill, effort, and authenticity that determine the quality of their work. This indicates that true writing ability comes from within, suggesting that the depth of one's character and commitment directly enhances the effectiveness of their composition.
Themes
WritingAuthenticityCraftSkillEffort
In practice
Example use cases
In a writing workshop, to inspire participants to put their best effort into their pieces.
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.
Henry David ThoreauRead
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
Henry David ThoreauRead
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.
Henry David ThoreauRead
That grand old poem called Winter
Henry David ThoreauRead
Similar quotes
It is a virtue to admit ignorance when you don't know, but not to wallow in ignorance as an end in itself._x000D_ _x000D_ People say if we don't believe god is watching over us, we abandon morality. Are they right?
Richard DawkinsRead
A man of action forced into a state of thought is unhappy until he can get out of it.
Franz KafkaRead
Don't leave a 'good time' to chance. Experiences have to be woven with care and planning, like a tapestry.
Jim RohnRead
Admit when you're wrong. Shut up when you're right.
John M. GottmanRead
I was lucky to learn early in life that you need money for food and shelter, but there's no ambition in having money in the bank for the sake of it!
Helen MccroryRead
Once we realize that imperfect understanding is the human condition there is no shame in being wrong, only in failing to correct our mistakes.
George SorosRead