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Quote by Elizabeth Gaskell

Work

Mary Barton

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Author

Elizabeth Gaskell
Elizabeth Gaskell

Elizabeth Gaskell was a British novelist born on September 29, 1810, in Manchester. Her works primarily depicted the social life of Britain during the Industrial Revolution, focusing on the lives of the working class. Gaskell is renowned for her delicate emotional portrayal and profound social insight, with notable works including 'Mary Barton' and 'North and South'. more

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“You have to have self-respect and faith in yourself to cultivate the courage to commit to your endeavours even when no one, including family members, is by your side and neutralizing the negative influences in your life.”

“The third principle is Non-stubbornness. Everyone in the community expects the two monks not to be stubborn, to try their best for reconciliation. The outcome is not important. The fact that each monk is doing his best to show his willingness for reconciliation and understanding is most important. When you do your best, trying to be your best in understanding and accepting, you don't have to worry about the outcome. You do your best, and that is enough. The other person will do his or her best. The atmosphere of the assembly is crucial. Because everyone has high expectations for the two monks, they know they must act well or they will not be recognized as brothers.”

“I always had a problem with the worn-out saying ‘beggars can’t be choosers.’ The saying is not only harsh, but it lacks depth. It does not consider that many people become poor precisely because of making courageous choices for which they pay a high price—poverty. Indeed, many people are not poor but impoverished precisely because they refuse to play the game and participate in the unjust and unhealthy system we have in place. The point is not about being able or unable to choose. It is about what kind of choices one makes.”

“You may think you are little and insignificant, but look at the bees - one little bee can make a giant human jump up and down in agony with its almost invisible sting and it can also bestow health upon a person with its sweet, nourishing nectar. Appearance means nothing, for potential is immeasurable.”