James Howell Quotes

Powerful James Howell for Daily Growth

About James Howell

James Howell (1594-1666), an English cleric and author, was a significant figure in the early years of the Restoration era. Born in Suffolk in 1594, Howell's precise date is uncertain due to conflicting accounts. He attended Cambridge University, where he studied Greek and Latin classics. His academic background would heavily influence his future works. Howell served as a chaplain to Prince Charles during the prince's exile in the Netherlands from 1624 to 1625. This association provided Howell with access to influential figures, which would later reflect in his writings. After returning to England, he was appointed Rector of Sutton-at-Hone in Kent. Howell is best known for his works that satirized contemporary society and the Church of England. His most famous work, "Epistolae Ho-Elianae," published in 1640, is a collection of humorous letters written in Latin, which gained him significant popularity. The book poked fun at various aspects of society, including politics, religion, and culture, earning Howell both admiration and criticism. Another notable work by Howell is "Londinopolis" (1657), a satirical description of London. This work criticized the city's government, its inhabitants, and their behaviors, reflecting his skepticism towards societal norms. Despite his humorous and critical works, Howell remained a Church of England clergyman throughout his life. He died in 1666, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue scholars due to his unique blend of satire and social commentary. His works remain relevant today as reflections of the complexities and absurdities of their respective times.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Do not wait for opportunities, create them."

This quote by James Howell emphasizes personal initiative and proactivity in one's life. Instead of passively waiting for good things to happen, it encourages individuals to take control and make their own opportunities. It suggests that if you want something, go out and create the circumstances that will allow you to achieve it, rather than hoping that circumstances will align on their own. Essentially, it's a call to action, urging people to be self-reliant, resourceful, and persistent in pursuing their goals.


"Life is a great and wondrous school, with difficulties to tighten our mental fibers, and obligations to furnish character."

This quote by James Howell suggests that life presents us with challenges to help us grow mentally and emotionally, thereby shaping our character. In other words, obstacles are not just hurdles to overcome, but opportunities for personal development. The difficulties we face, when navigated with determination and resilience, serve to strengthen our mental abilities and define our moral compass, resulting in the creation of a well-rounded and strong individual.


"He that can take a rest is greater than he that can take cities."

This quote by James Howell emphasizes the importance of self-care and balance, suggesting that the ability to rest is a significant strength, even greater than the capacity to conquer territories or achieve material accomplishments. In other words, it underscores the idea that true greatness lies not only in our external achievements but also in our understanding of the need for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation – vital components for sustainable growth and success.


"Let us not look back in anger, nor forward in fear, but around in awareness."

This quote by James Howell encourages one to refrain from dwelling on past mistakes (looking back in anger) or worrying about potential future problems (looking forward in fear). Instead, it suggests adopting a mindset of constant awareness, being fully present in the current moment to learn and grow from experiences. Awareness allows us to appreciate the present while also preparing for the future with a balanced perspective, freeing ourselves from the chains of regret or anxiety.


"Time, like a river, carries all its contents away; the moment of time we call 'Now' wastes as fast as any other."

This quote by James Howell emphasizes the fleeting nature of time. He compares time to a flowing river that carries everything along with it. The "Now" or present moment is transient, much like the water in a river, swiftly moving and constantly changing. It underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating the present while reminding us that we should not cling to moments, as they will inevitably pass, just like everything carried by the river.


Burn not thy fingers to snuff another man's candle.

- James Howell

Burn, Another, Thy, Snuff

Who has the fame to be an early riser may sleep till noon.

- James Howell

Sleep, May, Till, Noon

This life at best is but an inn, And we the passengers.

- James Howell

Life, Best, Passengers, Inn

One hair of a woman can draw more than a hundred pair of oxen.

- James Howell

Women, Hair, Hundred, Oxen

Proverbs may not improperly be called the philosophy of the common people.

- James Howell

Common, May, Common People, Philosophy

The creditor hath a better memory than the debtor.

- James Howell

Money, Memory, Better, Hath

All we can do is be better prepared today than yesterday and better prepared tomorrow than today.

- James Howell

Yesterday, Better, Prepared, Tomorrow

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