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Margaret Deland Quotes

Powerful Margaret Deland for Daily Growth

About Margaret Deland

Margaret Deland (1857-1948), an esteemed American writer, was born on August 16, 1857, in Erie, Pennsylvania. Known for her compelling depictions of the Quaker community and women's struggles during the late 19th century, Deland's works were deeply influenced by her own experiences and the social environment of her time. After attending the Friends' Central School in Philadelphia, Deland attended Swarthmore College, where she developed a deep interest in writing. However, she did not complete her degree due to health issues. In 1879, she married Edward T. Atkinson, with whom she had three children. The couple later divorced. Deland's literary career began in earnest after her second marriage to William Dean Howells in 1896. Howells, a prominent American realist and editor at Harper's Magazine, encouraged and supported Deland's writing. Her first novel, 'The Helpmate', was published in 1895, but it was her second novel, 'The Story of Avis' (1901), that brought her significant critical acclaim. The novel, set among the Quakers, tells a poignant story of a young woman's search for identity and self-realization within the confines of societal expectations. In 1903, Deland published 'Mistress Polly', which was adapted into a Broadway play in 1910. This novel, like her previous work, explored themes of women's independence and the challenges they faced in society. Deland's other notable works include 'The House of Gold' (1920) and 'Winter Tide' (1936). Margaret Deland passed away on February 5, 1948. Her works continue to be celebrated for their insightful portrayal of women's experiences during a transformative period in American history.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Life is a long lesson in humility."

This quote suggests that life teaches us to be humble, as it presents numerous challenges and situations that remind us of our limitations, dependence on others, and the interconnectedness of all things. It encourages the understanding that no one is immune to adversity or error, fostering a sense of humility and appreciation for the world around us.

"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, ambition, and ultimate success are fostered through adversity and challenging experiences rather than in times of comfort or tranquility. Trials and suffering serve to strengthen one's spirit, instill resilience, and inspire a drive to achieve goals. The idea is that facing hardships helps individuals grow, learn, and become more capable of achieving their aspirations.

"The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself."

This quote by Margaret Deland emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, independence, and personal identity. To "know how to belong to oneself" means to have a deep understanding of who you are, what you value, and what makes you unique. It is about being authentic, true to yourself, and not letting external expectations or influences define your existence. Essentially, it's the ability to live your life according to your own beliefs, desires, and passions, while maintaining a strong sense of self-worth and resilience.

"True friendship is a plant of slow growth."

Margaret Deland's quote, "True friendship is a plant of slow growth," emphasizes that genuine friendships take time to develop and strengthen, just like a plant that grows gradually over time. It suggests that patience and nurturing are crucial elements in the cultivation of lasting relationships built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. This quote reminds us not to rush the process of friendship, as authentic connections are worth the investment of time and effort required to grow them organically.

"We must not look back unless it is to derived useful lessons from past errors, and for the purpose of profiting by dearly bought experience."

This quote emphasizes the importance of learning from past mistakes rather than dwelling on them. The author encourages us to reflect on our past errors, not as a means of self-blame or regret, but as an opportunity for growth and improvement. In essence, she suggests that we should use the lessons learned from our errors to move forward with wisdom and avoid repeating the same mistakes in the future. This perspective allows us to profit from our experiences, enabling us to make progress in our lives and personal development.

Convictions do not imply reasons.

- Margaret Deland

Reasons, Imply, Convictions

Conscience that isn't hitched up to common sense is a mighty dangerous thing.

- Margaret Deland

Common, Conscience, Hitched, Mighty

Self-sacrifice which denies common sense is not a virtue. It's a spiritual dissipation.

- Margaret Deland

Spiritual, Common, Which, Common Sense

A pint can't hold a quart - if it holds a pint it is doing all that can be expected of it.

- Margaret Deland

Doing, Expected, Quart, Pint

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