Absence of occupation is not rest, A mind quite vacant is a mind distress'd.
Source: The Task (1785)
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189 quotes in this category.
Absence of occupation is not rest, A mind quite vacant is a mind distress'd.
What redeems it is the idea only. An idea at the back of it; not a sentimental pretence but an idea.
The supply of time is truly a daily miracle, an affair genuinely astonishing when one examines it.
The most important preliminary to the task of arranging one's life so that one may live fully and comfortably within one's daily budget of twenty-four hours is the calm realisation of the extreme difficulty of the task, of the sacrifices and the endless effort which it demands.
It is pleasant to be admitted into the birth-chamber of a great idea destined to be translated into action.
He never even for a day dismounted his hobby, but rode it manfully to the last.
We have no reason to fear lest a habit of conscientious inquiry should paralyze the actions of our daily life.
It would be no exaggeration to say, that the sole encouragement now left to authors to produce good books is the satisfaction of their own conscience.
For your reward you must demand the bronze ring which has the power to grant you everything you desire.
Keep the peace; take courage, and make your preparations.
No effort will be considered too high a price to ensure the triumph of a nobler humanity.