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Books Quote by Pliny the Younger

“So we must work at our profession and not make anybody else's idleness an excuse for our own. There is no lack of readers and listeners; it is for us to produce something worth being written and heard.” quote by Pliny the Younger
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“So we must work at our profession and not make anybody else's idleness an excuse for our own. There is no lack of readers and listeners; it is for us to produce something worth being written and heard.”

Pliny the Younger

About This Quote

Source Letter: Letters to Trajan, 107 AD

We must not blame others' idleness for our own lack of effort; we are responsible for creating valuable work for readers and listeners.

In simple terms: Don't use others' laziness as an excuse; produce worthwhile content.

Key Takeaway

Take responsibility for your output.

Themes

responsibility creativity productivity

Mood

determined reflective

Type

motivational ethical

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • publishing
  • teaching
  • public speaking

Key Concepts

ethics self-discipline

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure your work adds value?
  • What standards guide your creation?
A Different Perspective

If audience is indifferent, effort may feel futile.

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