I am like a man so busy in letting rooms in one end of his house, that he can't stop to put out the fire that is burning the other.
Abraham LincolnRead
Public sentiment is everything. With public sentiment, nothing can fail. Without it, nothing can succeed.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Public opinion greatly influences the success or failure of any endeavor.
Abraham Lincoln's quote emphasizes the immense power of public sentiment in determining the outcome of actions and initiatives. It suggests that when the public is supportive, efforts are likely to prosper, whereas a lack of public backing can hinder progress, no matter how capable the plan or idea may be. This underscores the importance of understanding and engaging with the perceptions and opinions of the public in leadership and decision-making.
Themes
Public SentimentSuccessFailureLeadershipOpinion
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about community initiatives, a leader might use this quote to rally support from constituents.
More from Abraham Lincoln
All quotes βSir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God's side, for God is always right.
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Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.
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How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg? Four. Calling a tail a leg doesn't make it a leg.
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For it has been said, all that a man hath will he give for his life; and while all contribute of their substance the soldier puts his life at stake, and often yields it up in his country's cause. The highest merit, then is due to the soldier.
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And having thus chosen our course, without guile, and with pure purpose, let us renew our trust in God, and go forward without fear, and with manly hearts.
Abraham LincolnRead
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