Friendship Quote by Thomas Hardy
““And so, though Smith was not at all the man Knight would have deliberately chosen as a friend—or even for one of a group of a dozen friends—he somehow was his friend. Circumstance, as usual, did it all. How many of us can say of our most intimate alter ego, leaving alone friends of the outer circle, that he is the man we should have chosen, as embodying the net result after adding up all the points in human nature that we love, and principles we hold, and subtracting all that we hate? The man is really somebody we got to know by mere physical juxtaposition long maintained, and was taken into our confidence, and even heart, as a makeshift.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Tess of the d'Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy, 1891
Friendship can arise from circumstance rather than deliberate choice, revealing that deep bonds often form through proximity and shared experiences.
In simple terms: Friends may form by chance, not planning.
Key Takeaway
Value unexpected connections.
Themes
friendship
circumstance
choice
human nature
relationships
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- college roommates
- work colleagues
- neighbors
- online communities
Key Concepts
social psychology
serendipity
compatibility
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you cherish friends you chose or those who chose you?
- How does circumstance shape your closest relationships?
A Different Perspective
Not all friendships are ideal; some may be superficial.
