Jean Ingelow Quotes

Powerful Jean Ingelow for Daily Growth

About Jean Ingelow

Jean Ingelow (1820-1897), an eminent Victorian poetess known for her emotional verse and social conscience, was born on April 23, 1820, in Great Yarmouth, England. Born as Emily Sara Johnson, she adopted the pseudonym Jean Ingelow later in life. Raised by religious parents, her family's financial struggles instilled a strong sense of empathy and social awareness within her. As a child, she showed an exceptional aptitude for literature, which was further nurtured through her private education at home. Her literary career began with the publication of "Maud and Mildred" in 1852, a novel that gained significant acclaim for its insightful portrayal of women's experiences and emotions. However, it was her subsequent poetry collection, "Mystic Rhodora and Other Poems" (1860), which brought her enduring fame. This work, characterized by its rich imagery and deep emotional resonance, cemented Ingelow's position as a leading voice in Victorian poetry. Ingelow was not only a talented writer but also an influential thinker. Her works often explored themes of love, loss, and social justice, reflecting the tumultuous times in which she lived. She was known for her progressive views on women's rights and worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the less fortunate. Ingelow passed away on June 14, 1897, leaving behind a significant literary legacy that continues to resonate today. Notable quotes by Jean Ingelow include: "There is no joy in the world like the joy of being wanted," and "Life's greatest happiness is to be convinced we are loved." These words remain poignant reminders of her deep understanding of human emotions and her ability to articulate them so beautifully.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is a pendulum that swings and calculates all we shall be."

This quote by Jean Ingelow suggests that life, represented as a pendulum, constantly oscillates between different states or experiences. The "swings" symbolize the ups and downs, highs and lows, successes and failures we encounter in life. The "calculates all we shall be" part implies that these experiences are not random but contribute to our growth and ultimate destination or character. Essentially, Ingelow is saying that life shapes us into who we become through the various trials and triumphs it presents.


"We all have dreams. But in order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline, and effort."

This quote emphasizes that realizing one's dreams requires more than just wishful thinking; it demands a significant amount of perseverance, commitment, self-control, and hard work. It suggests that those who are willing to put in the necessary effort, maintain focus, and remain dedicated to their goals have the best chance of turning their dreams into reality. In essence, it highlights that success is not just about dreaming big, but also about diligently working towards one's aspirations.


"It is better to love than to be loved; this is the one secret of happiness."

This quote suggests that actively giving love, rather than receiving it, is a primary key to finding true happiness. By focusing on love as an action rather than just a feeling or experience, individuals can foster a sense of fulfillment and contentment in their lives, regardless of the reciprocation received.


"Do not look forward in life any further than one day at a time."

This quote by Jean Ingelow emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment, avoiding excessive concern or anxiety about the future. By focusing on one day at a time, individuals can appreciate the beauty and opportunities that each day brings, without being overwhelmed by uncertainties or worries about what may come next. This mindset promotes a more fulfilling and less stressful life, as people are able to live intentionally and fully engage with their current experiences.


"He who has no ambition in a life worth living for, had better die."

This quote by Jean Ingelow emphasizes that having no aspirations or goals in life deemed worthy is not acceptable. It suggests that one should strive for something meaningful, as the absence of ambition might lead to an unfulfilling existence. However, it also implies a call to action - if life lacks purpose for an individual, they may as well choose to end their existence, as they are not truly living. The message is profound, urging us to find our passion and strive towards it, to make the most of our time on Earth.


Against her ankles as she trod The lucky buttercups did nod.

- Jean Ingelow

Gardening, Lucky, She, Ankles

How gently rock yon poplars high Against the reach of primrose sky With heaven's pale candles stored.

- Jean Ingelow

Sky, Reach, Against, Gently

A healthful hunger for a great idea is the beauty and blessedness of life.

- Jean Ingelow

Life, Beauty, Idea, Blessedness

Her face betokened all things dear and good, The light of somewhat yet to come was there Asleep, and waiting for the opening day, When childish thoughts, like flowers would drift away.

- Jean Ingelow

Waiting, Childish, Away, Drift

And bitter waxed the fray; Brother with brother spake no word When they met in the way.

- Jean Ingelow

Brother, Word, Bitter, Waxed

I have lived to thank God that all my prayers have not been answered.

- Jean Ingelow

Been, Answered, Thank, Prayers

When sparrows build and the leaves break forth, My old sorrow wakes and cries.

- Jean Ingelow

Sad, Leaves, Cries, Wakes

And old affront will stir the heart Through years of rankling pain.

- Jean Ingelow

Pain, Will, Through, Affront

Man is the miracle in nature. God Is the One Miracle to man.

- Jean Ingelow

Nature, God, Man, Miracle

The moon looks upon many night flowers; the night flowers see but one moon.

- Jean Ingelow

Nature, Flowers, Looks, Moon

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