"He had no failings which were not owing to a noble cause; to an ardent, generous, perhaps an immoderate passion for fame; a passion which is the instinct of all great souls"
- Edmund Burke
About this Quote
This quote by Edmund Burke is referring to a person who had no flaws or failings, however instead was driven by a worthy cause. This cause was an extreme and generous desire for popularity. Burke is recommending that this enthusiasm for popularity is a natural instinct of all excellent souls. He is suggesting that this passion is not a negative characteristic, but rather signifies greatness. This quote is a testimony to the power of ambition and the significance of pursuing achievement. It is a reminder that aspiration and enthusiasm can be a positive force, which it is possible to achieve achievement through hard work and devotion. Burke's quote is a pointer that aspiration and passion can be an effective motivator and can cause fantastic success.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"