There are old heads in the world who cannot help me by their example or advice to live worthily and satisfactorily to myself but I believe that it is in my power to elevate myself this very hour above the common level of my life.

Meaning

This quote articulates a concise principle related to life. It hints that life unfolds in unexpected ways and reminds us that unexpected events often teach us.

Theme

Reflections on life reveal how universal the theme is. It resonates since life affects every decision we make and teaches that every stage of life offers lessons.

About the Author

A number of familiar sayings are associated with Henry David Thoreau. This one stands out due to its focus on life.

Style and Structure

The phrasing is minimalistic, using contrast to focus attention on the core idea.

FAQ

What does this quote mean?
life unfolds in unexpected ways.

Why is it popular?
It speaks clearly about life, making it widely relatable.

How can it be applied?
It encourages us to we focus on the present moment.