How many a man has thrown up his hands at a time when a little more effort, a little more patience would have achieved success.
Elbert HubbardRead
Truth, in its struggles for recognition, passes through four distinct stages. First, we say it is damnable, dangerous, disorderly, and will surely disrupt society. Second, we declare it is heretical, infidelic and contrary to the Bible. Third, we say it is really a matter of no importance either one way or the other. Fourth, we aver that we have always upheld it and believed it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects the journey of truth from rejection to acceptance in society.
Elbert Hubbard outlines the four stages that truth typically undergoes in society. Initially, truth is seen as something dangerous and disruptive, often vilified and portrayed as immoral or heretical. Over time, as society becomes more familiar with the truth, it may be regarded as trivial or inconsequential. Eventually, the truth is embraced and celebrated as something that has always been valued, showcasing a shift in collective understanding and acceptance.
Themes
TruthSocietyRecognitionStagesAcceptance
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on honesty in communication at a business conference, this quote can highlight the challenges faced when introducing new ideas.
More from Elbert Hubbard
All quotes →The mintage of wisdom is to know that rest is rust, and that real life is love, laughter, and work.
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Many people fail in life, not for lack of ability or brains or even courage but simply because they have never organized their energies around a goal.
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He has achieved success who has worked well, laughed often, and loved much.
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Our finest flowers are often weeds transplanted.
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When on the brink of complete discouragement, success is discerning that...the line between failure and success is so fine that often a single extra effort is all that is needed to bring victory out of defeat.
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