"Something attempted, something done, Has earned a nights repose"

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s words, “Something attempted, something done, Has earned a night's repose,” offer a meditation on the relationship between action and fulfillment. The lines come from his poem “The Village Blacksmith,” where the protagonist diligently labors each day, his work both a necessity and a source of pride. The phrase encapsulates the dignity that is found in striving, regardless of the outcome. Attempting something, setting forth with intent, effort, or ambition, is in itself inherently meaningful, even before the result is measured. When a person not only attempts, but completes a task, achievement becomes a tangible reward. Through effort and follow-through, rest is not merely allowed but truly earned.

Longfellow imbues the concept of repose or rest with ethical and emotional significance. The day’s labor, whether grand or humble, justifies a peaceful night’s sleep. There is a profound human need to see one’s energies transformed into results, however modest. The earned repose is not simply physical; it is psychological and spiritual solace. The fatigue of honest effort is satisfying because it is purposeful. This satisfaction cannot be bought or given; it arises organically from a clear conscience and a day well spent.

In a broader sense, Longfellow’s lines speak to the value of perseverance and purposeful living. Making an attempt, persisting through obstacles, and bringing something to completion reflect qualities of resilience and character. The night’s repose becomes a metaphorical culmination, not only the literal rest from fatigue, but also peace of mind that comes with knowing one has faced the day bravely and contributed something, however small. For Longfellow, the real reward for enterprise and effort is this inner tranquility. The words thus serve as a gentle reminder that meaning and contentment are earned not by chance or idleness, but through the journey of striving and accomplishing, however humble the effort may seem.