The generality of virtuous women are like hidden treasures, they are safe only because nobody has sought after them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
There is a kind of elevation which does not depend on fortune; it is a certain air which distinguishes us, and seems to destine us for great things; it is a price which we imperceptibly set upon ourselves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True elevation comes from within rather than external circumstances; it is our self-worth that defines our greatness.
This quote by Francois De La Rochefoucauld emphasizes that one's sense of elevation or greatness is not merely a consequence of luck or fortune but rather a reflection of self-worth and personal dignity. The 'certain air' he refers to embodies an inner quality that can set individuals apart and highlight their potential for achieving remarkable things, regardless of their external situations.
Themes
ElevationSelf-WorthGreatnessPersonal DignityFortune
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech to inspire young leaders about the importance of self-esteem.
More from Francois De La Rochefoucauld
All quotes →Old men delight in giving good advice as a consolation for the fact that they can no longer set bad examples.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
Some counterfeits reproduce so very well the truth that it would be a flaw of judgment not to be deceived by them.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
Conceit causes more conversation than wit.
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The defects and faults of the mind are like wounds in the body; after all imaginable care has been taken to heal them up, still there will be a scar left behind, and they are in continual danger of breaking the skin and bursting out again.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
To understand matters rightly we should understand their details; and as that knowledge is almost infinite, our knowledge is always superficial and imperfect.
Francois De La RochefoucauldRead
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