“I do not hesitate to read all the books I have named, and all good books, in translations. What is really best in any book is translatable—any real insight or broad human sentiment.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
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.
“The true test of civilization is, not the census, nor the size of cities, nor the crops—no, but the kind of man the country turns out.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“The years teach much which the days never know.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“In skating over thin ice, our safety is in our speed.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary sourceMore quotes by Ralph Waldo Emerson →
“A good example is the best sermon.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“In comparing the number of good books with the shortness of life, many might well be read by proxy, if we had good proxies.”
— Ralph Waldo Emerson Primary source“Every day above earth is a good day.”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary source“The noblest question in the world is, what good may I do in it?”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source