Life is a journey that must be traveled no matter how bad the roads and accommodations.
A traveler of taste will notice that the wise are polite all over the world, but the fool only at home.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that true wisdom is reflected in how one treats others, irrespective of location, while ignorance is often limited to familiar surroundings.
Oliver Goldsmith's quote emphasizes the universal nature of wisdom and politeness, suggesting that those who are truly wise exhibit these qualities regardless of their surroundings. In contrast, it highlights that individuals who lack wisdom may only show politeness and consideration in their own familiar environments, suggesting a limited understanding of social etiquette and the importance of respect for others.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of cultural understanding and respect.
More from Oliver Goldsmith
All quotes βA mind too vigorous and active, serves only to consume the body to which it is joined.
Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall.
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.
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.
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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