To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that the only two unavoidable aspects of life are death and paying taxes.
Benjamin Franklin's quote highlights the inevitability of certain realities in life, particularly death and the obligation to pay taxes. It serves as a reminder of the things we cannot escape, regardless of our circumstances or status, and emphasizes the universal nature of these truths.
Themes
CertaintyDeathTaxesInevitabilityLife
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about life's challenges, one might say, 'As Benjamin Franklin wisely remarked, nothing is certain but death and taxes.'
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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Progress in thought is the assertion of individualism against authority.
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For this equilibrium now in sight, let us trust that mankind, as it has occurred in the greatest periods of its past, will find for itself a new code of ethics, common to all, made of tolerance, of courage, and of faith in the Spirit of men.
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People who are lying are, understandably, more worried about being believed, so they work harder - too hard, as it were - at being believable.
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He is dead in this world who has no belief in another.
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