I look upon every good man, as a good book, lent by its…
“I look upon every good man, as a good book, lent by its owner for another to read, and transcribe the excellent notions and golden passages that are in it for his own benefit, that they may return with him when the owner shall call for the book again: but in case this excellent book shall be thrown into a corner and no use made of it, it justly provokes the owner to take it away in displeasure. --Funeral of John Upton, Esq”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Good people are likened to valuable books lent for learning; neglect leads to loss of the gift.
In simple terms: Treat good people as valuable resources.
Key Takeaway
Value and share wisdom.
Themes
morality
education
relationships
generosity
spiritual stewardship
Mood
reflective
solemn
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- mentorship
- community building
- personal growth
Key Concepts
altruism
knowledge transmission
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you honor shared wisdom?
- When should you return a “borrowed” person?
A Different Perspective
May ignore personal boundaries.