Washington Irving was a prominent American author, best known for his short stories and essays. Born on April 3, 1783, in New York City, he became one of the first American writers to gain international acclaim. Irving’s works often explored themes of folklore, history, and the supernatural, making him a pioneer in the genre of American literature. His unique writing style and insightful observations continue to resonate with readers around the world. In this article, we will explore some of the most memorable Washington Irving quotes that capture his wisdom and creativity.
Read these Washington Irving quotes
“Great minds have purposes; others have wishes.”
“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.”
“Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.”
“A mother is the truest friend we have when trials heavy and sudden fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”
“A woman’s whole life is a history of the affections.”
“A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.”
“Great minds have purposes; others have wishes.”
“A father may turn his back on his child, brothers and sisters may become inveterate enemies, husbands may desert their wives, wives their husbands. But a mother’s love endures through all.”
“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.”
“Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart.”
“A mother is the truest friend we have when trials heavy and sudden fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavor by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”
“A woman’s whole life is a history of the affections.”
“A kind heart is a fountain of gladness, making everything in its vicinity freshen into smiles.”
“Age is a matter of feeling, not of years.”
“A sharp tongue is the only edge tool that grows keener with constant use.”
“A tart temper never mellows with age, and a sharp tongue is the only edged tool that grows keener with constant use.”
“The almighty dollar, that great object of universal devotion throughout our land…”
“A man’s friendships are one of the best measures of his worth.”
“There is a certain relief in change, even though it be from bad to worse; as I have found in traveling in a stagecoach, that it is often a comfort to shift one’s position and be bruised in a new place.”
“It is not poverty so much as pretense that harasses a ruined man—the struggle between a proud mind and an empty purse—the keeping up of a hollow show that must soon come to an end.”
“A mother’s love endures through all.”
These Washington Irving quotes provide a glimpse into the depth of his thoughts and the richness of his writing. From reflections on love and friendship to profound observations on the human condition, Irving’s words continue to inspire and resonate with readers today. Whether you are seeking wisdom or simply appreciate the beauty of language, these quotes serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Washington Irving.
