The art of being agreeable frequently miscarries through…
“The art of being agreeable frequently miscarries through the ambition which accompanies it. Wit, learning, wisdom,--what can more effectually conduce to the profit and delight of society? Yet I am sensible that a man may be too invariably wise, learned, or witty to be agreeable; and I take the reason of this to be, that pleasure cannot be bestowed by the simple and unmixed exertion of any one faculty or accomplishment.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Trying to be pleasant while also being ambitious often fails; true benefit comes from balanced wisdom, wit, and learning, not from overemphasis on any single trait.
In simple terms: Being too agreeable and ambitious together often fails; balanced wisdom, wit, and learning benefit society.
Key Takeaway
Balance ambition with genuine virtue.
Themes
virtue
balance
wisdom
ambition
social harmony
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- education
- teamwork
- public speaking
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you identify a time when too much ambition hurt your relationships?
- How can you cultivate balanced wisdom?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on one trait can limit true contribution.