Miles Franklin Quotes

Powerful Miles Franklin for Daily Growth

About Miles Franklin

Miles Franklin (1879-1954), born Stella Maria Sarah Miles Franklin on January 14, 1879, in Melbourne, Australia, was a significant novelist, essayist, and women's rights advocate, best known for her iconic work, "My Brilliant Career" (1901) and the Australian national novel, "The Drylanders" (1936), re-titled "All That's Left" for international audiences. Born into a prominent family, Miles Franklin was the great-niece of Sir William Clarke QC, one of Australia's founding fathers. Her early life was marked by a strong sense of independence and a deep love for her native land. She received a rigorous education at home, with her father as her tutor, and later attended schools in Sydney and Adelaide. In 1899, Franklin published her first novel, "My Brilliant Career," under the pseudonym "Miles Franklin." The semi-autobiographical work was a bold exploration of a young woman's desire for independence and her struggle against societal expectations. Despite initially poor sales, the book has since become a classic of Australian literature. Franklin moved to the United States in 1908, where she lived for several years, studying at Radcliffe College and working as a journalist. Upon returning to Australia, she dedicated herself to writing, producing works such as "The Bush Undermines" (1924) and her magnum opus, "The Drylanders." In 1955, a year after her death, the Miles Franklin Literary Award was established in her honor. The annual prize is one of Australia's most prestigious literary awards, recognizing the work of Australian writers. Today, Miles Franklin stands as a significant figure in Australian literature, championing Australian identity and women's rights through her writing.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'd rather be alone than in company that bores me."

This quote by Miles Franklin emphasizes the importance of personal fulfillment and authenticity over social conformity. It suggests that she values solitude more than being in the company of others who do not engage, stimulate or inspire her. In essence, it highlights the individual's need for meaningful connections and experiences, as opposed to superficial ones that do not resonate with their spirit.


"Everybody, everybody seems so anxious to get on; they never allow themselves a moment's thoughtfulness."

This quote by Miles Franklin highlights a modern societal phenomenon where people are often preoccupied with progress, success, or productivity, seldom taking time for introspection or thoughtfulness. It suggests that the constant drive to move forward can lead individuals to neglect important moments of reflection and self-awareness, potentially impacting their overall wellbeing and personal growth.


"Man is not made for dissipation, but for creation."

This quote suggests that human beings are fundamentally designed for productive endeavors rather than indulgence or excess. It implies that our true purpose lies in creating, building, inventing, and shaping the world around us. In essence, Miles Franklin posits that humans find fulfillment and meaning not in idle pleasures, but in constructive activities that contribute to personal growth and societal development.


"To be strong enough to strike and strike well when the need comes, that is strength."

This quote by Miles Franklin emphasizes the importance of being prepared and resilient, particularly in challenging situations. It suggests that true strength lies not only in the ability to defend oneself but also in the wisdom to know when action is necessary. In essence, it encourages self-reliance, courage, and strategic decision-making.


"We live not alone but by, with and through each other."

This quote by Miles Franklin emphasizes interdependence among individuals. It suggests that life is not solitary, but a collective experience. We depend on one another for emotional support, guidance, companionship, and survival. The quote implies that our actions, whether positive or negative, have an impact on those around us, thus we live "with" and "through" each other. In essence, it highlights the importance of community, empathy, and understanding in human existence.


It's a sign of your own worth sometimes if you are hated by the right people.

- Miles Franklin

Sometimes, Own, Sign, Right People

Someone to tell it to is one of the fundamental needs of human beings.

- Miles Franklin

Someone, Human Beings, Needs, Fundamental

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