Leverett Saltonstall Quotes

Powerful Leverett Saltonstall for Daily Growth

About Leverett Saltonstall

Leverett Saltonstall (1892-1979) was an influential American writer, poet, and diplomat whose work reflected his New England heritage and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Born in Salem, Massachusetts on August 3, 1892, he was the son of a prominent local family with roots dating back to the Mayflower. Saltonstall attended Harvard University where he studied literature, graduating in 1915. His first major work, "The Giant-Killer," was published in 1917 and won the Yale Younger Poets Prize. This collection of poems drew on his experiences as an ambulance driver during World War I and showcased his gift for vivid imagery and emotional depth. In 1925, Saltonstall was appointed as the U.S. Consul General in Marseille, France, a post he held until 1933. His diplomatic experiences inspired much of his later work, including "Voyage to an Island" (1940), a collection of essays that offered insightful observations on French culture and politics. Returning to the U.S., Saltonstall became increasingly involved in public service, serving as Governor of Massachusetts from 1939 to 1945. Despite this busy schedule, he continued to write, producing works such as "The White Mule" (1940), a novel set in Spain during the Spanish Civil War, and "A Field of Dark Grass" (1948), which explores themes of power, morality, and the supernatural. Saltonstall's later life was marked by honors and accolades. He was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Letters in 1953 and received the Bollingen Prize for Poetry in 1960 for his collection "The World at One's Shoulder." Leverett Saltonstall passed away on March 27, 1979, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to resonate with readers today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"In time of war, the first casualty is truth."

This quote by Leverett Saltonstall signifies that during wartime, the honesty and integrity of information can be compromised or distorted. It suggests that the pursuit of victory or winning public opinion may lead to a manipulation of facts, creating a false narrative, hence the first casualty being truth. This phenomenon is often observed in conflicts or disputes, where truth becomes secondary to political agendas or propaganda.


"Patriotism is not a short and frenzied outburst of emotion but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime."

Leverett Saltonstall's quote emphasizes that genuine patriotism should be demonstrated by steadfast, lifelong commitment rather than fleeting, emotional expressions. It suggests that true love for one's country is not just about enthusiastic displays of national pride but requires sustained, tranquil dedication to upholding its values and ideals over a long period. This perspective encourages individuals to strive for consistent action, thoughtfulness, and perseverance in serving their country, fostering stability and integrity within their society.


"The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide enough for those who have too little."

This quote by Leverett Saltonstall emphasizes that the true measure of societal progress is not just increasing wealth among the already affluent, but rather ensuring that everyone, especially those living in poverty, have access to basic necessities. It suggests a focus on economic equality and fair distribution of resources as key indicators of a just and prosperous society.


"We should remember that any opinion, however unpopular, is entitled to civil treatment."

This quote emphasizes respect and civility in discourse, regardless of the popularity or content of an opinion. It's a call for empathy, understanding, and open-mindedness towards different perspectives, even if they do not align with our own beliefs or are met with resistance. Such a stance promotes constructive dialogue and fosters social harmony.


"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

This quote emphasizes that character development and achieving success require challenges and hardships. It suggests that personal growth, ambition, and resilience are fostered through experiences of struggle, as it is in these moments that one's soul becomes stronger. In essence, Leverett Saltonstall is stating that adversity serves as an essential catalyst for individual development and attaining success.


I have the utmost respect for the different faiths professed by my fellow men.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Professed, Faiths, Fellow, Utmost Respect

I have confidence that the Unitarian Church will steadily grow and will help to sustain many of my fellow citizens in these important days that lie ahead of us.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Grow, Will, Ahead, Steadily

I have always felt that a man's religion was his personal and private affair.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Always, Private, His, Affair

Too many of my Senate colleagues overdid it. They stayed on too long - napping through committee hearings when they should have packed up and gone home.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Committee, Through, Many, Napping

I attended Sunday School and then church with my father and mother throughout my childhood.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Mother, Childhood, Attended, Sunday

I personally have always found the Unitarian faith a source of comfort and help in my daily life.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Faith, Daily Life, Always, Comfort

My family for several generations have been members of the Unitarian Church.

- Leverett Saltonstall

Been, Unitarian, Members, Generations

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