QuoteProject
Plays round the head, but comes not to the heart. One self-approving hour whole years outweighs Of stupid starers and of loud huzzas; And more true joy Marcellus exil'd feels Than Cæsar with a senate at his heels. In parts superior what advantage lies? Tell (for you can) what is it to be wise? 'T is but to know how little can be known; To see all others' faults, and feel our own.
Alexander Pope
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

True wisdom involves recognizing the limits of our knowledge and understanding our own faults.

In this quote, Alexander Pope suggests that superficial praise and attention from others are of little value compared to genuine self-reflection and self-approval. He argues that true joy and wisdom come from within, highlighting the importance of knowing our limitations and being aware of our own flaws rather than being consumed by the opinions of others.

Themes

WisdomSelf-ReflectionKnowledgeJoySelf-Approval

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of introspection.

More from Alexander Pope

Do good by stealth, and blush to find it fame.
Alexander PopeRead
What dire offence from am'rous causes springs, What mighty contests rise from trivial things.
Alexander PopeRead
Fair tresses man's imperial race ensnare; And beauty draws us with a single hair.
Alexander PopeRead
An honest man's the noblest work of God.
Alexander PopeRead
One thought of thee puts all the pomp to flight;_x000D_ _x000D_ Priests, tapers, temples, swim before my sight.
Alexander PopeRead
Who breaks a butterfly on a wheel?
Alexander PopeRead

Similar quotes

There is little difference in people, but that little difference makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude. The big difference is whether it is positive or negative.
W. Clement StoneRead
Inner #‎ peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your #‎ emotions
Pema ChodronRead
Self is not liberated. It was never bound. What gets liberated are the demons as well as gods of your mind. Set them free. You are sick of playing with the game. Be willing to not play the game. This takes huge resolve.
GangajiRead
He who can reach a child's heart can reach the worlds heart.
Rudyard KiplingRead
Our problems are man-made, therefore they may be solved by man. And man can be as big as he wants. No problem of human destiny is beyond human beings.
John F. KennedyRead
If you want to cultivate a habit, do it without any reservation, till it is firmly established. Until it is so confirmed, until it becomes a part of your character, let there be no exception, no relaxation of effort.
MahaviraRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.