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.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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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.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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