Failure Quote by Edgar Albert Guest
““Somebody said it couldn't be done. But he with a chuckle replied, That maybe it couldn't, but he would be one Who wouldn't say so 'till he'd tried. So he buckled right in with a trace of a grin On his face. If he worried, he hid it. He started to sing as he tackled the thing That couldn't be done. And he did. Somebody scoffed, "Oh, you'll never do that At least no one ever has done it." But he took off his coat, and he took off his hat, And the first thing we know, he'd begun it. With a lift of his chin and a bit of a grin, Without any doubting or "quit-it". He started to sing as he tackled the thing That couldn't done. And he did it. There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done. There are thousands to prophesy failure. There are thousands to point out to you, one by one, The dangers that wait to assail you But just buckle in, with a bit of a grin; Just take off your coat and go to it. Just start in to sing as yout tackle the thing That cannot be done--and you'll do it!””
About This Quote
Source Poem: Unknown (attributed to Guest, early 20th century)
Perseverance and optimism can overcome seemingly impossible challenges, turning doubt into achievement.
In simple terms: Optimism and effort beat doubt.
Key Takeaway
Embrace challenges with confidence.
Themes
determination
optimism
overcoming doubt
resilience
action
Mood
hopeful
energetic
confident
Type
inspirational
motivational
poetic
When to use this quote
- starting a new project
- facing a tough task
- confronting criticism
- persisting despite setbacks
- motivating a team
Key Concepts
growth mindset
self‑efficacy
psychological resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- What small step can you take today?
- How do you stay motivated when others doubt you?
A Different Perspective
May ignore realistic risks and overestimate abilities.
