Trifles Quote by Emily Eden
““Since trifles make the sum of human things, And half our misery from trifles springs– Oh! let the ungentle spirit learn from thence A small unkindness is a great offence.””
About This Quote
Source Poem: “Trifles” from 1809 collection, published in The Minerva Magazine
Small unkind acts cause disproportionate suffering, teaching that minor offenses can become serious grievances.
In simple terms: Minor wrongs can cause big pain.
Key Takeaway
Treat small slights seriously.
Themes
trifles
misery
offence
Mood
reflective
cautionary
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- interpersonal conflicts
- workplace etiquette
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
human nature
ethical conduct
social harmony
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we address small grievances before they grow?
- What teaches us about the impact of minor actions?
A Different Perspective
Focusing on minor faults may overlook larger issues.
![“. . . . [P]ersons who love very much, easily take offense at trifles. No doubt your excessive affection for me makes you a little diffident about mine. But there is no harm done; I hope you will soon be over this slight jealousy and be convinced that nothing can change the genuine affection Our…” quote by Vincent de Paul](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/570/vincent-de-paul-1676_affection_p-ersons-who-love-very-much-easily-take_52639.jpg)
