Books Quote by George MacDonald
““I would remind my reader that Donal was a Celt, with a nature open to every fancy of love or awe -- one of the same breed with the foolish Galatians, and like them ready to be bewitched; but bearing a heart that welcomed the light with glad rebound -- loved the lovely, nor loved it only, but turned towards it with desire to become like it. Fergus too was a Celt in the main, but was spoiled by the paltry ambition of being distinguished. He was not in love with loveliness, but in love with praise. He saw not a little of what was good and noble, and would fain be such, but mainly that men might regard him for his goodness and nobility; hence his practical notion of the good was weak, and of the noble, paltry. His one desire in doing anything, was to be approved of or admired in the same -- approved of in the opinions he held, in the plans he pursued, in the doctrines he taught . . .””
About This Quote
Source Book: Phantastes by George MacDonald, 1858
The passage contrasts two Celtic characters: one who loves beauty for its own sake, and another who seeks admiration and praise, showing how desire for external validation weakens true virtue.
In simple terms: One loves beauty, the other craves praise, leading to shallow values.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic appreciation over approval.
Themes
beauty
validation
virtue
pride
motivation
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
literary
character analysis
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- artistic creation
- leadership
- self‑esteem
- career ambition
Key Concepts
Celtic identity
intrinsic vs extrinsic love
ethical weakness
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you pursue things for love or for applause?
- How does seeking praise shape your choices?
A Different Perspective
External approval can erode genuine goodness and lead to superficial goals.
![“I wish I had [made that song]. No, I don't That would be to take it from somebody else. But it's mine for all that.' 'What makes it yours?' 'I love it so.' 'Does loving a thing make it yours?' 'I think so, Mother -- at least more than anything else can. . . . Love makes the only myness,' said…” quote by George MacDonald](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/722/george-macdonald-295_love_i-wish-i-had-made-that-song-no-i-don-t-t_35103.jpg)
