To the generous mind the heaviest debt is that of gratitude, when it is not in our power to repay it.
Benjamin FranklinRead
The two most beautiful sights I have witnessed in my life are a full blown ship at sail and the round-bellied pregnant female.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Franklin appreciates the natural beauty of a sailing ship and a pregnant woman, symbolizing life and creation.
In this quote, Benjamin Franklin expresses his admiration for two profoundly beautiful sights: a ship fully unfurled with sails billowing in the wind and the elegance of a pregnant woman. Both images evoke a sense of life, movement, and creation, capturing the essence of natural beauty in forms that represent journeying and the promise of new life. Franklin's comparison suggests that beauty can be found in both human experiences and nature's manifestations.
Themes
BeautyNatureLifeShipPregnancy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be shared during a nature appreciation event.
More from Benjamin Franklin
All quotes βHe'll cheat without scruple, who can without fear.
Benjamin FranklinRead
[E]very Man who comes among us, and takes up a piece of Land, becomes a Citizen, and by our Constitution has a Voice in Elections, and a share in the Government of the Country.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Our Constitution is in actual operation; everything appears to promise that it will last; but in this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.
Benjamin FranklinRead
Let honesty and industry be thy constant companions, and spend one penny less than thy clear gains; then shall thy pocket begin to thrive; creditors will not insult, nor want oppress, nor hungerness bite, nor nakedness freeze thee
Benjamin FranklinRead
I think that a young state, like a young virgin, should modestly stay at home, and wait the application of suitors for an alliance with her; and not run about offering her amity to all the world; and hazarding their refusal. Our virgin is a jolly one; and tho at present not very rich, will in time be a great fortune, and where she has a favorable predisposition, it seems to me well worth cultivating.
Benjamin FranklinRead
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