I mean a man whose hopes and aims may sometimes lie (as…
“I mean a man whose hopes and aims may sometimes lie (as most men's sometimes do, I dare say) above the ordinary level, but to whom the ordinary level will be high enough after all if it should prove to be a way of usefulness and good service leading to no other. All generous spirits are ambitious, I suppose, but the ambition that calmly trusts itself to such a road, instead of spasmodically trying to fly over it, is of the kind I care for.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
True ambition is modest, serving others rather than seeking glory.
In simple terms: Quiet ambition serves others.
Key Takeaway
Pursue modest, service‑oriented goals.
Themes
ambition
service
humility
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
philosophical
literary
When to use this quote
- career development
- community work
- personal growth
- leadership roles
Key Concepts
ethical leadership
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance modesty with self‑promotion?
- What service‑oriented goals inspire you?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on humility can limit self‑advocacy.