Best of me Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“You may rely on it that you have the best of me in my books, and that I am not worth seeing personally, the stuttering, blunderingclod-hopper that I am. Even poetry, you know, is in one sense an infinite brag and exaggeration. Not that I do not stand on all that I have written,--but what am I to the truth I feebly utter?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Walden, 1854
The writer acknowledges his own imperfections while recognizing poetry’s tendency to exaggerate truth.
In simple terms: Even flawed writers can convey truth through poetry.
Key Takeaway
Embrace humility in creative work.
Themes
humility
truth
poetry
self‑critique
exaggeration
Mood
contemplative
self‑critical
philosophical
Type
literary
philosophical
introspective
When to use this quote
- writing
- public speaking
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
authenticity
self‑awareness
literary art
Questions to Reflect On
- What truth do you fear to reveal?
- How can exaggeration serve honesty?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on self‑deprecation can undermine confidence.
