We are poor plants buoyed up by the air-vessels of our own…
““We are poor plants buoyed up by the air-vessels of our own conceit: alas for us, if we get a few pinches that empty us of that windy self-subsistence! The very capacity for good would go out of us. For, tell the most impassioned orator, suddenly, that his wig is awry, or his shirt-lap hanging out, and that he is tickling people by the oddity of his person, instead of thrilling them by the energy of his periods, and you would infallibly dry up the spring of his eloquence. That is a deep and wide saying, that no miracle can be wrought without faith--without the worker's faith in himself, as well as the recipient's faith in him. And the greater part of the worker's faith in himself is made up of the faith that others believe in him.m””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Self‑importance blinds us; faith in self and others fuels achievement, but hubris can dry up eloquence.
In simple terms: Pride blocks growth; faith fuels success.
Key Takeaway
Balance humility with confidence.
Themes
pride
faith
human nature
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- public speaking
- creative work
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
self‑efficacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does humility affect your work?
- What role does faith play in your achievements?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence may cause failure.