One can acquire everything in solitude except character.
StendhalRead
...one of the traits of genius is not to drag its thought through the rut worn by vulgar minds.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Genius involves thinking outside conventional boundaries and not conforming to popular opinions.
This quote by Stendhal suggests that true genius is characterized by the ability to think independently and creatively, rather than following the mainstream or 'vulgar' thoughts of the majority. It emphasizes the importance of original thinking and the courage to diverge from common beliefs to arrive at unique insights and ideas.
Themes
GeniusThoughtIndependenceCreativityOriginality
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a graduation speech to inspire students to think independently.
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In love, unlike most other passions, the recollection of what you have had and lost is always better than what you can hope for in the future.
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A very small degree of hope is sufficient to cause the birth of love.
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If you don't love me, it does not matter, anyway I can love for both of us.
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Pleasure is often spoiled by describing it.
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All is worthwhile if the soul is not small.
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The truth comes as conqueror only because we have lost the art of receiving it as guest.
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Such a man as instinctively feeds on pure ambrosia and leaves alone the indigestible in things.
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...when we are comfortable and inattentive, we run the risk of committing grave injustices absentmindedly.
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