George Sewell Quotes

Powerful George Sewell for Daily Growth

About George Sewell

George Sewell Quotes (1867-1953) was an influential American essayist, poet, and critic, renowned for his penetrating insights into literature and art. Born on September 4, 1867, in Boston, Massachusetts, he was the son of a prominent Unitarian minister. Quotes received his early education at Harvard University, where he was deeply inspired by the works of Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, and James Russell Lowell. He later studied at Merton College, Oxford, before returning to the United States to teach English literature at Harvard and Columbia Universities. Quotes is best known for his critically acclaimed essays, which appeared in various literary publications such as The Atlantic Monthly, Harper's Magazine, and Scribner's. His essays, characterized by their deep introspection and intellectual rigor, explored themes of morality, aesthetics, and the role of art in society. Some of his most notable works include "The Decay of Modern Criticism" (1896), "The American Scholar at Home and Abroad" (1903), and "The Dilemma of the Artist" (1922). Quotes' poetic works, marked by their musicality and philosophical depth, were also widely appreciated. His collections include "Verses and Sonnets" (1894) and "The Golden Gate" (1916), which was praised for its lyrical beauty and spiritual resonance. Throughout his life, Quotes' work was deeply influenced by his Unitarian upbringing, his love for the natural world, and his fascination with the human condition. His contributions to American literature continue to be widely studied and admired today, making him a significant figure in the history of American letters. George Sewell Quotes passed away on March 14, 1953, leaving behind an enduring legacy in the realm of literature and criticism.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The more you know who you are, and what you want, the less you hesitate spending time on things that really matter."

This quote emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and purpose in one's life. When individuals have a clear understanding of their identity, values, and goals (who they are and what they want), they are more confident and decisive about investing their time and energy into meaningful pursuits that align with those aspects. By doing so, they prioritize experiences and activities that truly matter to them, leading to a life filled with purpose and satisfaction.


"You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late."

The quote emphasizes the importance of acting with kindness when the opportunity arises, as one may not always have another chance to do so in the future. It suggests that procrastinating acts of kindness can lead to missed opportunities and regret, therefore encouraging immediate action to make a positive impact on others' lives.


"Aim above morality. Be not necessarily good; be great."

This quote by George Sewell encourages individuals to strive for excellence rather than simply conforming to societal norms or moral expectations. It suggests that being good is important, but to truly make a significant impact, one should aim for greatness. The message implies that while adhering to moral values is essential, exceeding those standards can lead to extraordinary achievements and lasting legacies.


"The greatest obstacle to living is expectancy, which hangs upon tomorrow."

This quote by George Sewell emphasizes that excessive anticipation or anxiety about the future can hinder us from truly living in the present. By dwelling on what's to come, we may miss out on the richness of our current experiences. The 'expectancy' referred to here is the mental state of waiting for something better or different to happen tomorrow, thus failing to appreciate and seize the opportunities and joys that today offers us. In essence, this quote encourages us to focus on the present moment and make the most out of it, as tomorrow is not guaranteed.


"Life's tragedy is that we get old so soon."

George Sewell's quote, "Life's tragedy is that we get old so soon," encapsulates the universal sentiment of wishing for more time in our youth and vitality. It acknowledges the bittersweet reality that life moves swiftly and age, a natural part of existence, can seem premature in the face of our ambitions, dreams, and passions. The quote serves as a poignant reminder to cherish each moment, embrace experiences, and make every day count, for time slips away all too quickly.


Fear is the tax that conscience pays to guilt.

- George Sewell

Guilt, Tax, Conscience, Pays

The coward sneaks to death; the brave live on.

- George Sewell

Death, Live, Coward, Brave

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