Quotessence
Home / Quotes / Quote by Daniel Mendelsohn

Quote by Daniel Mendelsohn

Work

Waiting for the Barbarians: Essays from the Classics to Pop Culture

This book is a compilation of essays that delve into the profound themes of power, morality, and human nature. The essays span a wide range of literary and cultural works, from classical texts to contemporary pop culture, offering a diverse and thought-provoking exploration of these complex issues. more

Author

Daniel Mendelsohn
Daniel Mendelsohn

Daniel Mendelsohn is an American memoirist known for his profound self-reflection and insightful exploration of history. His works often intertwine personal experiences with broader historical contexts. more

You May Also Like

“On closer inspection, the hero status accorded to Abraham, Moses and David in the Old Testament (and echoed in the New Testament) is rooted not in their moral perfection but in their uncompromising dedication to the cause of Yahweh and their rugged trust in the promises of God rather than lapsing into the idolatry of many of their contemporaries.”

“If writing with a goal - whether it be evangelistic, apologetic, or didactic - implies propaganda, then all recorded history is propaganda. . . a work shouldn't be dismissed simply because of the strong convictions of the writer. Should we discount the facticity or reliability of the accounts of Nazi concentration camp survivors simply because they passionately recount their story?”

“If your lot makes you cry and be wretched, get rid of it and take another; strike out for yourself; don't listen to the shriek of your relations...don't be afraid of public opinion in the shape of the neighbours in the next house, when all the world is before you new and shining, and everything is possible, if you will only be energetic and independent and seize opportunity by the scruff of the neck.”