There rise authors now and then, who seem proof against the mutability of language, because they have rooted themselves in the unchanging principles of human nature.
Washington IrvingRead
He who wins a thousand common hearts is entitled to some renown; but he who keeps undisputed sway over the heart of a coquette is indeed a hero.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the significance of winning affection and admiration, particularly from someone who is difficult to love.
Washington Irving highlights the challenge of capturing the heart of a coquette, a person known for flirtation and insincerity in love. While gaining popularity may bring its own fame, maintaining genuine affection from someone who is elusive and selective in their emotions is a true testament to one's character and worth.
Themes
LoveAffectionCoquetteHeroHearts
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared in a wedding speech to illustrate the depth of true love.
More from Washington Irving
All quotes βThere is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.
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Sweet is the memory of distant friends! Like the mellow rays of the departing sun, it falls tenderly, yet sadly, on the heart.
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Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.
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The easiest thing to do, whenever you fail, is to put yourself down by blaming your lack of ability for your misfortunes.
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If I can, by a lucky chance, in these uneasy days, rub out one wrinkle from the brow of care, or beguile the heavy heart of one moment of sadness; if I can, how and then, prompt a happier view of human nature, and make my reader more in good humor with his fellow-beings and himself, surely, I shall not have written in vain.
Washington IrvingRead
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