“What is the hardest task in the world? To think.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Intellect (Primary source)
In Intellect, Emerson distinguishes between Understanding (logical thought) and Reason (intuitive insight). He argues that true knowledge and spiritual apprehension come from cultivating Reason, enabling the mind to grasp universal truths beyond mere facts or analysis.
“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 →
“Success is the most convincing talker in the world.”
— Napoleon Bonaparte Disputed“He that can have patience can have what he will.”
— Benjamin Franklin Primary source“Let him think I am more man than I am and I will be so.”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary source“Now is no time to think of what you do not have. Think of what you can do with what there is.”
— Ernest Hemingway Primary source