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Quote by Baltasar Gracian

“When you counsel someone, you should appear to be reminding him of something he had forgotten, not of the light he was unable to see.”

Quote by Baltasar Gracian

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Baltasar Gracian
Baltasar Gracian

Baltasar Gracian, born on January 8, 1601 and died on December 6, 1658, was a renowned Spanish writer, philosopher, and theologian. He is known for his profound philosophical thoughts and unique literary style. more

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Book:The Rambler: A Periodical Paper, Published in 1750, 1751, 1752
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“It is not indeed certain, that the most refined caution will find a proper time for bringing a man to the knowledge of his own failing, or the most zealous benevolence reconcile him to that judgment by which they are detected; but he who endeavours only the happiness of him whom he reproves will always have either the satisfaction of obtaining or deserving kindness; if he succeeds, he benefits his friend; and if he fails, he has at least the consciousness that he suffers for only doing well.”

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Book:The Works of Samuel Johnson, LL.D.: With An Essay on His Life and Genius
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“If we consider the manner in which those who assume the office of directing the conduct of others execute their undertaking, it will not be very wonderful that their labours, however zealous or affectionate, are frequently useless. For what is the advice that is commonly given? A few general maxims, enforced with vehemence, and inculcated with importunity, but failing for want of particular reference and immediate application.”

IfsWantGivenWonderfulFailingAdviceParticularOfficeAssumingUselessLabourApplicationMaximsUndertakingsAffectionateZealousVehemence
Book:Murphy's essay. The rambler. The adventurer. The idler. Rasselas. Tales of the imagination. Letters. Irene. Miscellaneous poems
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“Advice, as it always gives a temporary appearance of superiority, can never be very grateful, even when it is most necessary or most judicious. But for the same reason everyone is eager to instruct his neighbours. To be wise or to be virtuous is to buy dignity and importance at a high price; but when nothing is necessary to elevation but detection of the follies or faults of others, no man is so insensible to the voice of fame as to linger on the ground.”

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Author:Samuel Johnson
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“Vanity is so frequently the apparent motive of advice that we, for the most part, summon our powers to oppose it without very accurate inquiry whether it is right. It is sufficient that another is growing great in his own eyes at our expense, and assumes authority over us without our permission; for many would contentedly suffer the consequences of their own mistakes, rather than the insolence of him who triumphs as their deliverer.”

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Book:The works of Samuel Johnson
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