Friendship (Primary source)
Emerson’s Friendship, a seminal text on the topic, explores true companionship as a sacred bond rooted in mutual respect, integrity, and spiritual growth. It argues genuine friendship requires self-reliance and honesty, elevating individuals to their highest selves.
“A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The only way to have a friend is to be one.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“Trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The law of nature is, do the thing, and you shall have the power: but they who do not the thing have not the power.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →
“Do not do that which you would not have known.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“It is easier to forgive an Enemy than to forgive a Friend.”
— William Blake Primary source“Go out into the sunlight and be happy with what you see.”
— Winston Churchill Primary source“I don’t want to be your friend, baby. I am your friend.”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary sourceFriendship Guests Visitors Hospitality