Margaret Smith Quotes

Powerful Margaret Smith for Daily Growth

About Margaret Smith

Margaret Smith (later Margaret Deland) was an American author known for her thought-provoking novels that tackled social issues of her time. Born in 1857 in Willoughby, Ohio, she grew up in a family with strong literary inclinations. Her father, Elijah Smith, was a teacher and newspaper editor, while her mother, Lucinda Thompson Smith, authored several books on education. Margaret's early life was marked by moves between cities due to her father's work as a minister. This nomadic lifestyle provided her with exposure to various social environments, experiences that later influenced her writing. She attended Willoughby Female Seminary and Western Reserve College (now Case Western Reserve University), where she studied literature and philosophy. In 1879, Margaret married Edward J. Deland, a journalist, and they settled in Cleveland. The marriage produced four children but was marred by Edward's alcoholism, which influenced Margaret's writing significantly. Her first novel, "Janice Meredith" (1886), was a semi-autobiographical account of her struggle with an alcoholic husband. Deland's most famous work is "Mistress Polyxena" (1894), a novel set in post-Civil War South, exploring themes of social change and the struggle for women's rights. Another notable work is "A Tale of Two Cities" (1890), which reimagined Charles Dickens' classic tale with an American setting and a strong female protagonist. Deland's works were praised for their insightful portrayal of social issues, particularly those affecting women. Despite her success, she remained largely unknown compared to other contemporaries due to the male-dominated literary scene of her time. Margaret Smith Deland passed away in 1945, leaving behind a legacy of thought-provoking literature that continues to resonate today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Never give up on something that you can't go a day without thinking about."

This quote emphasizes the importance of pursuing passions or goals relentlessly, as they hold significant value in one's life, evoking daily thought and reflection. It encourages persistence in efforts, even when faced with obstacles or challenges, reminding us that our interests and aspirations are integral parts of who we are.


"In three words I can sum up everything I've learned about life: it goes on."

This quote emphasizes the resilience, continuity, and unending nature of life. No matter what challenges we face or experiences we encounter, life persists. It encourages us to persevere through hardships knowing that time will move forward regardless, and we must adapt and continue living.


"Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else."

This quote by Margaret Smith highlights the paradoxical nature of humanity, emphasizing that while every individual is distinct and unique in their own way, this uniqueness also makes us all fundamentally similar to each other. It serves as a reminder that despite our shared qualities and experiences, it's essential to value our individuality and understand that no two people are exactly alike. The humor in the statement lies in its juxtaposition of opposing ideas, highlighting the universal truth that we are all unique but also connected in our shared humanity.


"You can't live your life for other people. You've got to do what's right for you, even if it hurts some people you love."

This quote emphasizes personal autonomy and self-awareness. It suggests that while maintaining relationships with loved ones is important, one must prioritize their own happiness, values, and integrity above all else. Sometimes making choices that align with these aspects may cause temporary discord or pain in relationships, but it fosters long-term personal growth and contentment. Essentially, the quote encourages a balance between caring for others and caring for oneself.


"Life is too short to waste time hating anyone."

This quote emphasizes the importance of not wasting valuable life energy on hatred or negative emotions towards others. Instead, it encourages a more productive and fulfilling existence by focusing on love, understanding, and growth. In essence, it suggests that directing our time and energy towards constructive pursuits and positive relationships will enrich our lives more than harboring feelings of animosity towards others.


Sin recognized but that may keep us humble, But oh, it keeps us nasty.

- Margaret Smith

Humble, Keep, May, Nasty

My uncle Sammy was an angry man. He had printed on his tombstone: What are you looking at?

- Margaret Smith

Funny, Uncle, Tombstone, Printed

I don't visit my parents often because Delta Airlines won't wait in the yard while I run in.

- Margaret Smith

Wait, Yard, Delta, Visit

I can't get a relationship to last longer than it takes to make copies of their tapes.

- Margaret Smith

Last, Longer, Tapes, Copies

The best contraceptive is the word no - repeated frequently.

- Margaret Smith

Best, Word, Frequently, Repeated

If I had been the Virgin Mary, I would have said 'No.'

- Margaret Smith

Been, Had, Would, Mary

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