Weather is a literary specialty, and no untrained hand can turn out a good article on it
Mark TwainRead
The smallest minds and the selfishest souls and the cowardliest hearts that God makes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote criticizes those who are small-minded, selfish, and cowardly, suggesting that these traits are undesirable in human character.
Mark Twain emphasizes the negative qualities of small-mindedness, selfishness, and cowardice, implying that such attributes represent the lowest forms of human character. The use of 'the smallest minds' points to intellectual narrowness, while 'selfishest souls' highlights a lack of compassion for others, and 'cowardliest hearts' underscores a failure to demonstrate bravery in the face of challenges. Twain's commentary serves as a caution against these traits, encouraging individuals to aspire to greater integrity and courage.
Themes
CowardiceSelfishnessNarrow-MindednessIntegrityCourage
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about the importance of courage and selflessness.
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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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