But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
Lord ByronRead
But words are things, and a small drop of ink, Falling like dew, upon a thought, produces That which makes thousands, perhaps millions, think.
Interpretation
Words have a profound impact, capable of inspiring and influencing many.
This quote by Lord Byron underscores the significant power of words, likening them to a small drop of ink that can spark a great deal of thought and reflection. It suggests that even the simplest expression can lead to widespread contemplation and discussion, illustrating how ideas can grow from modest beginnings to affect countless individuals.
In practice
During a speech about creativity, one might quote Byron to emphasize the importance of writing.
But what is Hope? Nothing but the paint on the face of Existence; the least touch of truth rubs it off, and then we see what a hollow-cheeked harlot we have got hold of.
It is the lava of the imagination whose eruption prevents an earthquake.
For what were all these country patriots born? To hunt, and vote, and raise the price of corn?
Absence - that common cure of love.
Her great merit is finding out mine; there is nothing so amiable as discernment.
For truth is always strange; stranger than fiction.
False thinking and false ideologies, dressed in the most pleasing forms, quietly - almost without our knowing it - seek to reduce our moral defenses and to captivate our minds. They entice with bright promises of security, cradle-to-grave guarantees of many kinds.
There are hunters, and there are victims. By your discipline, cunning, obedience, and alertness, you will decide if you are a hunter or a victim.
Preserve the sayings of those people who are indifferent to the world. They say only that what Allah wishes them to say.
He (the Sage) does not show off, therefore he shines.
None of us can avoid being contaminated by the world's evils; it's all a matter of what attitude you take towards them.
We want to believe. Young students try to believe in older authors, constituents try to believe in their Congressmen, countries try to believe in their statesmen, but they can't. Too many voices, too much scattered, illogical ill-considered criticism.
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