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For, when men shall meet as they ought, each a benefactor…

“For, when men shall meet as they ought, each a benefactor, a shower of stars, clothed with thoughts, with deeds, with accomplishments, it should be the festival of nature which all things announce. Of such friendship, love in the sexes is the first symbol, as all other things are symbols of love…” quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson
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“For, when men shall meet as they ought, each a benefactor, a shower of stars, clothed with thoughts, with deeds, with accomplishments, it should be the festival of nature which all things announce. Of such friendship, love in the sexes is the first symbol, as all other things are symbols of love. Those relations to the best men, which, at one time, we reckoned the romances of youth, become, in the progress of character, the most solid enjoyment.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

About This Quote

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

The passage celebrates ideal friendships as uplifting, likening them to a festival of nature that reveals love and personal growth.

In simple terms: True friendship lifts us and fosters love and growth.

Key Takeaway

Seek deep, supportive friendships.

Themes

friendship love personal development

Mood

reflective optimistic

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • college life
  • career mentorship
  • community building

Key Concepts

philosophy humanism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What qualities make a friendship feel like a celebration?
  • How does friendship shape personal character?
A Different Perspective

Idealized view may overlook conflict in real friendships.

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