I was just going to say, when I was interrupted, that one of the many ways of classifying minds is under the heads of arithmetical and algebraical intellects. All economical and practical wisdom is an extension of the following arithmetical formula 2 2 4. Every philosophical proposition has the more general character of the expression a b c. We are mere operatives, empirics, and egotists until we learn to think in letters instead of figures.
More Quotes from Oliver Wendell Holmes:
There is that glorious epicurean paradox uttered by my friend the historian, in one of his flashing moments 'Give us the luxuries of life, and we will dispense with its necessaries.' To this must certainly be added that other saying of one of the wittiest of men 'Good Americans when they die go to Paris.'Oliver Wendell Holmes
Truth, when not sought after, rarely comes to light.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Without wearing any mask we are conscious of, we have a special face for each friend.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Our brains are seventy-year clocks. The Angel of Life winds them up once for all, then closes the case, and gives the key into the hand of the Angel of the Resurrection.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
With effervescing opinions, the quickest way to let them get flat is to let them get exposed to the air.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Literature is full of coincidences, which some love to believe are plagiarisms. There are thoughts always abroad in the air which it takes more wit to avoid than to hit upon.
Oliver Wendell Holmes
Readers Who Like This Quotation Also Like:
Based on Topics: Letters Quotes, Mind Quotes, Wisdom & Knowledge QuotesBased on Keywords: arithmetical, classifying, economical, egotists, empirics, operatives
I love the sea's sounds and the way it reflects the sky. The colours that shimmer across its surface are unbelievable. This, combined with the colour of the water over white sand, surprises me every time.
John Dyer
If you were plowing a field, which would you rather use? Two strong oxen or 1024 chickens?
Seymoure Cray
Man is a creation of desire, not a creation of need.
Gaston Bachelard