“There is no knowledge that is not power”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Old Age (Primary source)
In Old Age, Emerson reflects on the dignity and wisdom that can accompany aging. He argues that true value in later life comes from continued intellectual and moral growth, embracing experience, and maintaining an active spirit, rather than dwelling on physical decline.
“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 source“The years teach much which the days never know.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“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 sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →