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Write on your doors the saying wise and old, "Be bold! be…

“Write on your doors the saying wise and old, "Be bold! be bold!" and everywhere - "Be bold; Be not too bold!" Yet better the excess Than the defect; better the more than less; Better like Hector in the field to die, Than like a perfumed Paris turn and fly.” quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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“Write on your doors the saying wise and old, "Be bold! be bold!" and everywhere - "Be bold; Be not too bold!" Yet better the excess Than the defect; better the more than less; Better like Hector in the field to die, Than like a perfumed Paris turn and fly.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Boldness is praised, yet excess can be harmful; balance courage with wisdom.

In simple terms: Be brave but not reckless; moderation matters.

Key Takeaway

Seek bold action tempered by prudence.

Themes

courage balance wisdom

Mood

thoughtful inspirational

Type

literary advice

When to use this quote

  • leadership decisions
  • personal challenges
  • public speaking
  • creative risk

Key Concepts

moderation risk assessment heroic ideal

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does boldness become overconfidence?
  • How can you measure the right level of daring?
A Different Perspective

Boldness without restraint can lead to failure.

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