Books (Primary source)
In Books, Emerson emphasizes that books are for inspiration, not mere imitation. He urges readers to engage actively with texts, using them to stimulate original thought and self-discovery, rather than passively accepting others’ wisdom.
“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 →
“Example is the best lesson there is.”
— Eleanor Roosevelt Primary source“Study without desire spoils the memory, and it retains nothing that it takes in.”
— Leonardo da Vinci Primary source“A good example is the best sermon.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Anger is never without a reason, but seldom with a good one.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary sourceLibrary Books Quality Cambridge