Diligence Quote by Yamamoto Tsunetomo
“When one is writing a letter, he should think that the recipient will make it into a hanging scroll.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Hagakure, 1716
Suggests writing a letter should be as dignified as a hanging scroll, emphasizing respect and permanence.
In simple terms: Write letters with honor and lasting impact.
Key Takeaway
Treat correspondence as a work of art.
Themes
respect
tradition
communication
craftsmanship
Mood
contemplative
respectful
Type
cultural
literary
When to use this quote
- personal letters
- official documents
- artistic calligraphy
Key Concepts
cultural etiquette
literary art
formal writing
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you honor the recipient in brief messages?
- What does a “hanging scroll” symbolize for you?
A Different Perspective
Modern brevity may conflict with this ideal.
![“First off, LARDASS, you neglected to include a sign-off, forcing me to create one for you. I tried to create one that captured the spirit and tone of your letter, and I think I did pretty well. [] I am thoroughly annoyed at having my tame statements of fact-being heavy is a health risk; rolls of…” quote by Dan Savage](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/294/dan-savage-2880_annoyed_first-off-lardass-you-neglected-to-inclu_2910471.jpg)
![“[...] if one seeks to resolve a problem, let it sit for a while, take time to think about the “Four Oaths” and subdue any self-centered thoughts, and then you will be able to proceed without faltering.” quote by Yamamoto Tsunetomo](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/049/yamamoto-tsunetomo-4367_quote_if-one-seeks-to-resolve-a-problem-let-it_123208.jpg)
![“If he [Thomas Edison] had a needle to find in a haystack, he would not stop to reason where it was most likely to be, but would proceed at once with the feverish diligence of a bee, to examine straw after straw until he found the object of his search. ... [J]ust a little theory and calculation…” quote by Nikola Tesla](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a00/nikola-tesla-1383_bees_if-he-thomas-edison-had-a-needle-to-find_97217.jpg)
