None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Why should we be in such desperate haste to succeed, and in such desperate enterprises? If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Success should not be pursued at the expense of one's individuality and personal rhythm.
In this quote, Thoreau reflects on the nature of success and the societal pressures to conform to a particular standard of achievement. He suggests that individuals may operate at different paces and that one should not rush into pursuits simply to align with others, as true fulfillment lies in listening to one's own unique path and perspective.
Themes
SuccessIndividualityPaceHappinessAchievement
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about the importance of following one's own dreams.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes →Through want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
Henry David ThoreauRead
An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.
Henry David ThoreauRead
Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
Henry David ThoreauRead
As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
Henry David ThoreauRead
That grand old poem called Winter
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