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.
“It was for beauty that the world was made.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“In skating over thin ice, our safety is in our speed.”
— 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 →
“You may be too cunning for one, but not for all.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“The most effective way to do it is to do it.”
— Amelia Earhart Disputed“A friend is a person with whom I may be sincere.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“For what are we born if not to aid one another?”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary source