Circles (Primary source)
In this essay, Emerson discusses the idea that everything in life is constantly expanding and evolving, like concentric circles. It emphasizes the fluid and ever-changing nature of truth and knowledge.
“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 →
“Little strokes fell great oaks.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“To be great is to be misunderstood.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“A life of leisure, and a life of laziness, are two things.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Beware of little expenses, a small leak will sink a great ship.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source