Women have been called queens for a long time, but the kingdom given them isn't worth ruling.
Louisa May AlcottRead
Conceit spoils the finest genius. There is not much danger that real talent or goodness will be overlooked long; even if it is, the consciousness of possessing and using it well should satisfy one, and the great charm of all power is modesty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Conceit can ruin true talent, while genuine modesty enhances it.
This quote by Louisa May Alcott emphasizes that arrogance can diminish even the greatest abilities. True talent, paired with humility, is far more admirable and can eventually be recognized by others. It suggests that one should take pride in their skills without letting arrogance overshadow their essence, as true power lies in being modest.
Themes
ConceitTalentModestyHumilityPower
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about self-improvement and humility.
More from Louisa May Alcott
All quotes →You have grown abominably lazy, and you like gossip, and waste time on frivolous things, you are contented to be petted and admired by silly people, instead of being loved and respected by wise ones.
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"Stay" is a charming word in a friend's vocabulary.
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... swept into the giddy vortex which keeps so many young people revolving aimlessly, till they go down or are cast upon the shore, wrecks of what they might have been
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Simple, genuine goodness is the best capital to found the business of this life upon. It lasts when fame and money fail, and is the only riches we can take out of this world with us.
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It takes two flints to make a fire.
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