Mary Wilson Little Quotes

Powerful Mary Wilson Little for Daily Growth

About Mary Wilson Little

Mary Wilson Little (1867-1935) was an influential American writer and poet known for her spiritual and philosophical themes. Born on September 10, 1867, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, she spent her formative years surrounded by a family deeply rooted in literature and religion. Her father, William Little, was a minister, and her mother, Sarah Jane (Wilson) Little, was a schoolteacher. Inspired by her family's literary pursuits, Mary began writing at an early age. She attended the Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania but later switched her focus to journalism and literature. Her first significant work, "The White Slipper," was published in 1894, followed by "Aunt Toby's Story" in 1895. Little's breakthrough came with the publication of her novel, "A White Heron," in 1896. The story revolves around a young girl named Sylvia who seeks wisdom and self-discovery amidst the beauty of nature. The book was praised for its mature themes and profound philosophical insights, showcasing Little's unique literary style and her deep connection with nature. Following the success of "A White Heron," Mary continued to produce works that reflected her spiritual beliefs and love for nature. Notable among these are "The Bond-Maid" (1901) and "The Moth and the Flame" (1923). Despite her writing success, Little remained a private figure, living much of her life in seclusion. She passed away on March 8, 1935, leaving behind a legacy of works that continue to inspire readers with their profound philosophical insights and deep exploration of spiritual themes. Mary Wilson Little's enduring impact on American literature is a testament to her unique vision and the timelessness of her work.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm a woman in charge, I carry a pen and a sword."

The quote suggests that the speaker is a powerful, assertive woman who combines intelligence (symbolized by the "pen") with strength and determination (symbolized by the "sword"). This combination signifies her ability to effectively communicate her ideas and fight for them, while also suggesting a balance between peaceful resolution and decisive action when necessary.


"If you don't stand for something, you will fall for anything."

This quote by Mary Wilson underscores the importance of having a clear sense of personal values and beliefs. It suggests that without a firm foundation to guide our actions and decisions, we are at risk of being swayed by external influences or circumstances, potentially leading us astray. Standing for something means having convictions, principles, and ideals that define who we are and what we believe in. This not only helps maintain integrity but also provides direction in life's journey. The implication is that when faced with challenges or temptations, those who stand for something will be better equipped to navigate them wisely and make informed choices.


"The most difficult thing is the decision to act, the rest is merely tenacity."

This quote underscores that the hardest part in overcoming challenges or achieving goals is making the initial decision to take action. Once that step is taken, persistence and determination are key factors for continuing on the chosen path. The quote implies that once we've decided to act, the rest of the journey, though challenging at times, is manageable with unwavering resolve.


"A dream written down with a date becomes a goal. A goal broken down into steps becomes a plan. A plan backed by action makes your dreams come true."

This quote by Mary Wilson emphasizes the power of planning and action in achieving one's dreams. By writing down your aspirations with a specific timeline, they transform into tangible goals. Breaking those goals into manageable steps creates a comprehensive plan that serves as a roadmap to success. Executing actions in accordance with this plan eventually leads to the realization of one's dreams. Essentially, the quote underscores the importance of taking an active role in turning dreams into reality through careful planning and persistent action.


"Success is not about how much money you make; it's about the difference you make in people's lives."

This quote by Mary Wilson Little emphasizes that success should be measured by the impact one has on others, rather than merely financial wealth. It suggests that true success lies in making a positive difference in people's lives, creating value beyond materialistic gains. In other words, success is about leaving a meaningful and lasting imprint on the world around us through compassion, empathy, and selfless acts.


In some parts of Ireland the sleep which knows no waking is always followed by a wake which knows no sleeping.

- Mary Wilson Little

Sleep, Always, Which, Ireland

It is difficult to see why lace should be so expensive; it is mostly holes.

- Mary Wilson Little

See, Lace, Mostly, Holes

He who devotes sixteen hours a day to hard study may become at sixty as wise as he thought himself at twenty.

- Mary Wilson Little

Wisdom, Sixty, Hours, Twenty

The penalty of success is to be bored by the attentions of people who formerly snubbed you.

- Mary Wilson Little

Success, Success Is, Penalty, Bored

Politeness is half good manners and half good lying.

- Mary Wilson Little

Good Manners, Half, Manners

Politeness is only one half good manners and the other half good lying.

- Mary Wilson Little

Good Manners, Other, Half, Manners

The tombstone is about the only thing that can stand upright and lie on its face at the same time.

- Mary Wilson Little

Face, Tombstone, Same, Upright

There is no pleasure in having nothing to do; the fun is in having lots to do and not doing it.

- Mary Wilson Little

Doing, Lots, Having, Fun

If man is only a little lower than the angels, the angels should reform.

- Mary Wilson Little

Than, Reform, Lower, Angels

A youth with his first cigar makes himself sick; a youth with his first girl makes other people sick.

- Mary Wilson Little

Other, Himself, His, Sick

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