"Life is like a snowball. First you roll it, then you eat it."
This quote by Ben Schott suggests that life, much like a snowball, has two distinct phases. Initially, one shapes or molds their life through experiences, choices, and actions (rolling the snowball). Eventually, as we grow and learn, we reflect on these experiences and perhaps enjoy the fruits of our labor, or "eat" the snowball metaphorically, symbolizing finding joy, meaning, and satisfaction in what we've created (our life). The quote reminds us to find a balance between shaping our lives actively and appreciating the outcomes of our efforts.
"The Internet has given us the ability to waste time on a scale unimaginable by our ancestors."
This quote underscores the remarkable, unprecedented potential for distraction that the internet presents, far exceeding the capabilities of prehistoric means. The internet, with its myriad resources and entertaining content, has made it possible to lose time in ways our ancestors could scarcely fathom due to the sheer volume and variety of activities available online.
"Inspiration is for amateurs: the rest of us just show up and get to work."
This quote suggests that true creativity and innovation often come from consistent effort, discipline, and dedication rather than waiting for a fleeting moment of inspiration. It implies that professionals, in any field, understand this and make a habit of putting in the work every day, which over time leads to progress and success. Inspiration can be helpful but should not serve as an excuse to procrastinate or avoid hard work.
"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."
This quote by Ben Schott suggests that perception is more important than observation. It implies that one's understanding, interpretation, or insights about a situation, object, or person are crucial, rather than just passively looking at them. The quote encourages us to actively engage with the world around us, to dig deeper and uncover the hidden meanings and truths beyond the surface level. Essentially, it's a call to see beyond what is apparent and strive for a more profound understanding.
"Ideas are like jean shorts - everyone should own a pair, but no one wants to wear them in public."
The quote suggests that ideas, much like fashion statements such as jean shorts, are personal and unique possessions of many individuals. However, just like how not everyone may feel comfortable wearing trendy clothing in public, not every idea is suitable or appropriate to share publicly due to various reasons such as practicality, sensitivity, or potential backlash. The quote emphasizes the value and ownership of ideas, while also acknowledging the sometimes daunting task of deciding when and where to share them.
I follow blogs, particularly all the main political ones - Guido Fawkes, Iain Dale, Coffee House, Paul Waugh, Iain Martin in the Wall Street Journal, and so on. And some American ones, like the Huffington Post, Gawker, Boing Boing; or Eater and Daily Candy, also American, which are about where to go to eat.
- Ben Schott
I spend a lot of time looking at rococo books. And almanacs used to be huge sellers - they were pretty much part of the fabric of life. I thought, this is bizarre, I'd love to buy a book like this, and there isn't one. So I thought, all right then, this could be fun. I'll write an almanac.
- Ben Schott
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