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To be angry about trifles is mean and childish; to rage…

“To be angry about trifles is mean and childish; to rage and be furious is brutish; and to maintain perpetual wrath is akin to the practice and temper of devils; but to prevent and suppress rising resentment is wise and glorious, is manly and divine.” quote by Isaac Watts
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“To be angry about trifles is mean and childish; to rage and be furious is brutish; and to maintain perpetual wrath is akin to the practice and temper of devils; but to prevent and suppress rising resentment is wise and glorious, is manly and divine.”

Isaac Watts

About This Quote

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

Trivial anger is childish; extreme rage is brutish; constant wrath is devilish; suppressing resentment is wise and divine.

In simple terms: Avoid petty anger and constant wrath; choose calmness.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate calm over anger.

Themes

self‑control wisdom spirituality

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • personal meditation
  • stress management

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is it appropriate to express anger?
  • How can you distinguish healthy assertiveness from wrath?
A Different Perspective

Suppressing may ignore legitimate grievances.

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