Unpretending mediocrity is good, and genius is glorious but a weak flavor of genius in an essentially common person is detestable. It spoils the grand neutrality of a commonplace character, as the rinsings of an unwashed wine-glass spoil a draught of fair water.
More Quotes from Oliver Wendell Holmes:
I think, I said, I can make it plain to Benjamin Franklin here that there are at least six personalities distinctly to be recognized as taking part in that dialogue between John and Thomas. Three Johns 1. The real John known only to his Maker. 2. Johns ideal John never the real one, and often very unlike him. 3. Thomas ideal John never the real John, nor Johns John, but often very unlike either. Three Thomases 1. The real Thomas. 2. Thomas ideal Thomas. 3. Johns ideal Thomas.Oliver Wendell Holmes
Our dead brothers still live for us and bid us think of life, not death -- of life to which in their youth they lent the passion and glory of Spring. As I listen, the great chorus of life and joy begins again, and amid the awful orchestra of seen and unseen powers and destinies of good and evil, our trumpets, sound once more a note of daring, hope, and will.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
I don't generally feel anything until noon, then it's time for my nap.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Life is painting a picture, not doing a sum.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Most people are willing to take the Sermon on the Mount as a flag to sail under, but few will use it as a rudder by which to steer.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Off with the spoils of wrinkled age!
Oliver Wendell Holmes
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Based on Topics: Characters Quotes, Fairness Quotes, Genius Quotes, Water QuotesBased on Keywords: detestable, draught, unpretending, unwashed
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