Admirer Quote by Oliver Goldsmith
“Popular glory is a perfect coquette; her lovers must toil, feel every inquietude, indulge every caprice, and perhaps at last be jilted into the bargain. True glory, on the other hand, resembles a woman of sense; her admirers must play no tricks. They feel no great anxiety, for they are sure in the end of being rewarded in proportion to their merit.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Vicar of Wakefield by Oliver Goldsmith, 1766
The quote contrasts fleeting, superficial fame that requires constant effort and appeasement with lasting, earned reputation that comes naturally from merit.
In simple terms: True glory comes from merit, not from seeking attention.
Key Takeaway
Earn respect through genuine achievement.
Themes
reputation
merit
fame
effort
authenticity
Mood
reflective
inspirational
thoughtful
Type
aphilosophical
motivational
advice
When to use this quote
- career advancement
- public speaking
- leadership
- personal branding
Key Concepts
social psychology
virtue ethics
self‑esteem
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions can you take to build merit‑based reputation?
- How do you distinguish between genuine achievement and superficial acclaim?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook systemic biases that affect who receives recognition.
![“[T]here are depths of thousands of miles which are hidden from our inquiry. The only tidings we have from those unfathomable regions are by means of volcanoes, those burning mountains that seem to discharge their materials from the lowest abysses of the earth.” quote by Oliver Goldsmith](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b7d/oliver-goldsmith-772_abyss_t-here-are-depths-of-thousands-of-miles_88121.jpg)
