Weather is a literary specialty, and no untrained hand can turn out a good article on it
Mark TwainRead
Praise is well, compliment is well, but affection-that is the last and most precious reward that any man can win, whether by character or achievement.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Affection is the highest form of appreciation one can receive for their character or accomplishments.
In this quote, Mark Twain emphasizes the importance of affection over mere praise or compliments. While recognition for achievements and good character is valuable, it is the deep, personal connection expressed through affection that holds the most significance, making it the ultimate reward a person can earn in life.
Themes
AffectionPraiseComplimentRewardCharacter
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational talk, one could use this quote to highlight the significance of genuine connections over superficial accolades.
More from Mark Twain
All quotes βThe easy part of being an artist is figuring out the message that everyone else is ready to hear. The hard part is waiting for the proper lull to make the announcement.
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You can't reason with your heart; it has its own laws, and thumps about things which the intellect scorns.
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To be good is noble; but to show others how to be good is nobler and no trouble.
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Name the greatest of all inventors. Accident.
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In Paris they just simply opened their eyes and stared when we spoke to them in French! We never did succeed in making those idiots understand their own language.
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I loved you; even now I may confess, Some embers of my love their fire retain; But do not let it cause you more distress, I do not want to sadden you again. Hopeless and tongue tied, yet I loved you dearly With pangs the jealous and the timid know; So tenderly I loved you, so sincerely, I pray God grant another love you so.
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