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Ridicule has always been the enemy of enthusiasm, and the only worthy opponent to ridicule is success.
Oliver Goldsmith
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Ridicule can dampen enthusiasm, but achieving success is the best way to counteract it.

In this quote by Oliver Goldsmith, the idea conveyed is that mockery and scorn can suppress an individual's zeal and passion for their pursuits. However, the most effective way to combat such ridicule is through personal success, which not only validates one's efforts but also silences detractors. The quote emphasizes the importance of perseverance and achievement in the face of negativity.

Themes

RidiculeEnthusiasmSuccessMotivationPerseverance

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech to students facing criticism.

More from Oliver Goldsmith

Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.
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A mind too vigorous and active, serves only to consume the body to which it is joined.
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Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall.
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Whatever the skill of any country may be in the sciences, it is from its excellence in polite learning alone that it must expect a character from posterity.
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Life at the greatest and best is but a froward child, that must be humored and coaxed a little till it falls asleep, and then all the care is over.
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Hope, like the gleaming taper's light,_x000D_ _x000D_ Adorns and cheers our way;_x000D_ _x000D_ And still, as darker grows the night,_x000D_ _x000D_ Emits a brighter ray.
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