Digressions incontestably are the sunshine; they are the life, the soul of reading.
Laurence SterneRead
Solitude is the best nurse of wisdom.
Interpretation
Solitude allows individuals to reflect and gain deeper insights, leading to wisdom.
This quote by Laurence Sterne suggests that spending time alone, or in solitude, fosters an environment conducive to reflection and contemplation. When we are alone, we can think more deeply about our experiences and thoughts, which eventually leads to greater understanding and wisdom. It highlights the value of quiet introspection in our personal growth and intellectual development.
In practice
During a motivational speech about personal development, this quote can illustrate the importance of self-reflection.
Digressions incontestably are the sunshine; they are the life, the soul of reading.
To write a book is for all the world like humming a songβbe but in tune with yourself, madam, 'tis no matter how high or how low you take it.
The accusing spirit, which flew up to heaven's chancery with the oath, blushed as he gave it in; and the recording angel as he wrote it down dropped a tear upon the word and blotted it out forever.
I'll not hurt thee, says Uncle Toby, rising with the fly in his hand. Go, he says, opening the window to let it escape. Why should I hurt thee? This world is surely wide enough to hold both thee and me.
I once asked a hermit in Italy how he could venture to live alone, in a single cottage, on the top of a mountain, a mile from any habitation? He replied, that Providence was his next-door neighbor.
People who are always taking care of their health are like misers, who are hoarding a treasure which they have never spirit enough to enjoy.
Furthermore, we have not even to risk the adventure alone; for the heroes of all time have gone before us; the labyrinth is thoroughly known; we have only to follow the thread of the hero-path. And where we had thought to find an abomination, we shall find a god; where we had thought to slay another, we shall slay ourselves; where we had thought to travel outward, we shall come to the center of our own existence; and where we had thought to be alone, we shall be with all the world.
To some men it is hard seeing a call of God through difficulties; when if it would but clothe itself with a few carnal advantages, how apparent it is to them! They can see it through a little cranny.
The Voice of Reason is in us all...and everyone can recognize it because it makes sense and everyone benefits from it equally.
He who is taught only by himself has a fool for a master.
Saki says that youth is like hors d'oeuvres: you are so busy thinking of the next courses you don't notice it. When you've had them, you wish you'd had more hors d'oeuvres.
Adversity is wont to reveal genius, prosperity to hide it.
Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.