When people will not weed their own minds, they are apt to be overrun by nettles.
Horace WalpoleRead
The passions seldom give good advice but to the interested and mercenary. Resentment generally suggests bad measures. Second thoughts and good nature will rarely, very rarely, approve the first hints of anger.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Passionate emotions can lead to poor decision-making, particularly when fueled by anger or resentment.
In this quote, Horace Walpole emphasizes the importance of tempering our emotions when making decisions. He suggests that acting on anger or resentment often leads to regrettable choices, and it is wiser to reflect and control our feelings before responding. The 'passions' he refers to can cloud judgment, making it crucial to consider the consequences of our actions rather than impulsively responding to our emotions.
Themes
EmotionsAngerDecision-MakingReflectionWisdom
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about handling conflicts at work, one might say, 'Remember, The passions seldom give good advice...'
More from Horace Walpole
All quotes →Life is a comedy for those who think and a tragedy for those who feel.
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We often repent of our first thoughts, and scarce ever of our second.
Horace WalpoleRead
Who has begun has half done. Have the courage to be wise. Begin!
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By deafness one gains in one respect more than one loses; one misses more nonsense than sense.
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Men are often capable of greater things than they perform - They are sent into the world with bills of credit, and seldom draw to their full extent.
Horace WalpoleRead
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