Skip to content

Continuance Quote by Thomas Carlyle

“Man, it is not thy works, which are mortal, infinitely little, and the greatest no greater than the least, but only the spirit thou workest in, that can have worth or continuance.” quote by Thomas Carlyle
Download Open image
“Man, it is not thy works, which are mortal, infinitely little, and the greatest no greater than the least, but only the spirit thou workest in, that can have worth or continuance.”

Thomas Carlyle

About This Quote

Source Essay: Signs of the Times, 1855

True worth lies in the spirit behind actions, not the actions themselves, regardless of scale.

In simple terms: Spirit matters more than deeds.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate inner purpose.

Themes

spirituality value humility legacy

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business achievements
  • political power
  • celebrity status

Key Concepts

ethics motivation existential meaning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you measure inner worth?
  • What actions reflect your spirit?
A Different Perspective

External success may eclipse inner growth.

2.8 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Thomas Carlyle

Explore all 917 Thomas Carlyle quotes

More Continuance quotes

Browse all 65 Continuance quotes