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Bold Quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

“Write on your doors the saying wise and old. "Be bold!" and everywhere - "Be bold; Be not too bold!" Yet better the excess Than the defect; better the more than less sustaineth him and the steadiness of his mind beareth him out.” quote by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
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“Write on your doors the saying wise and old. "Be bold!" and everywhere - "Be bold; Be not too bold!" Yet better the excess Than the defect; better the more than less sustaineth him and the steadiness of his mind beareth him out.”

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

About This Quote

Source Poem: "The Song of Hiawatha", 1855

Balancing boldness with moderation leads to steady progress and mental steadiness.

In simple terms: Boldness tempered by restraint yields lasting steadiness.

Key Takeaway

Be bold, but stay measured.

Themes

courage moderation steadiness

Mood

reflective calm

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • creative projects
  • personal growth
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

Stoicism self‑discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you gauge when boldness becomes reckless?
  • When does restraint become passivity?
A Different Perspective

Over‑cautiousness can stifle innovation.

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