Art Quote by Samuel Johnson
““No degree of knowledge attainable by man is able to set him above the want of hourly assistance, or to extinguish the desire of fond endearments, and tender officiousness; and therefore no one should think it unnecessary to learn those arts by which friendship may be gained. Kindness is preserved by a constant reciprocation of benefits or interchange of pleasures; but such benefits can only be bestowed as others are capable to receive, and such pleasures only imparted as others are qualified to enjoy. By this descent from the pinnacles of art no honour will be lost; for the condescensions of learning are always overpaid by gratitude. An elevated genius employed in little things appears, to use the simile of Longinus, like the sun in his evening declination; he remits his splendour but remains his magnitude, and pleases more, though he dazzles less.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idler, 1759
True wisdom lies in humility, kindness, and reciprocal friendship, not lofty knowledge alone.
In simple terms: Kindness and humility matter more than mere intellect.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate humility and kindness.
Themes
humility
friendship
kindness
learning
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- mentoring
- community building
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
reciprocity
gratitude
human connection
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice reciprocal kindness daily?
- What does humility look like in your work?
A Different Perspective
May undervalue expertise.
