Richard Savage Quotes

Powerful Richard Savage for Daily Growth

About Richard Savage

Richard Savage (1697-1743), an English poet and satirist, was born on April 28, 1697, in London. His birth name was Thomas Powys, but he later took the name of his adoptive father, Sir Richard Savage, a distinguished lawyer and scholar. Savage's early life was marked by poverty and uncertainty, as he was abandoned by his parents at a young age and raised by various relatives. Savage's literary career began in the 1720s with the publication of his first major work, "The Battle of the Books," a satirical response to Alexander Pope's "The Rape of the Lock." This work established Savage as a significant voice in the literary scene and earned him both admirers and enemies. One of his most notable works is "The Wanderer" (1729), an autobiographical poem that details his troubled life, including his illegitimacy, his struggles with poverty, and his tumultuous relationships. This work is considered one of the most moving and personal poems of the Augustan era. Despite his talent, Savage's life was plagued by personal struggles. He was known for his excessive drinking and gambling, which contributed to his financial difficulties. He died in London on February 18, 1743, at the relatively young age of 45. Savage's work continues to be celebrated for its raw emotion, wit, and insight into the human condition. His life story, marked by tragedy and resilience, serves as a testament to the power of the written word in overcoming adversity.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Hope is the dream of a future good, and only in hope is our wisdom applied."

This quote suggests that hope fuels our aspirations for a positive future, motivating us to actively engage with our surroundings and apply our wisdom in pursuit of this desirable outcome. It implies that without the driving force of hope, our intellect remains idle or directionless, as we lack a compelling vision for what could be. In essence, hope inspires the practical application of knowledge and reason towards the betterment of tomorrow.


"Man's chief good is to do good to man."

Richard Savage's quote, "Man's chief good is to do good to man," emphasizes the importance of altruism and helping others as a fundamental aspect of human well-being. It suggests that the ultimate purpose or goal for humanity lies in benefiting one another, fostering a society built on compassion, empathy, and cooperation rather than individual gain. This perspective underscores the interconnectedness of our lives and highlights the importance of mutual support and solidarity as we navigate this shared human experience.


"The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are."

This quote emphasizes the importance of taking action in one's life, highlighting the realization that change must occur in order to progress or achieve goals. Simply remaining static in a current situation will lead to no movement or advancement. The key is making the decision to take that first step forward towards growth and improvement, whether it be personally or professionally.


"To govern is to serve."

This quote emphasizes that leadership should prioritize the needs, welfare, and well-being of those being governed above personal interests or ambitions. A true leader understands their role as a servant, working tirelessly for the betterment of their people, fostering fairness, equality, and peace in society. It's a powerful reminder that those who wish to lead must first learn to listen, care, and serve.


"He who knows the why and the wherefore of things, can bear with almost anyhow."

This quote suggests that a person who understands the purpose (why) and the cause or rationale (wherefore) behind things, has the resilience to endure various circumstances or hardships. Knowledge and understanding provide perspective, making it easier to tolerate and adapt to challenging situations.


He lives to build, not boast, a generous race; No tenth transmitter of a foolish face.

- Richard Savage

Face, Tenth, Lives, Foolish

Anger is implanted in us as sort of sting, to make us gnash with our teeth against the devil, to make us vehement against him, not to set us in array against each other.

- Richard Savage

Other, Against, Set, Array

When anger rushes unrestrained to action, like a hot steed, it stumbles on its way. The man of thought strikes deepest and strikes safely.

- Richard Savage

Thought, Hot, Like, Strikes

Such, Polly, are your sex - part truth, part fiction; - Some thought, much whim and all a contradiction.

- Richard Savage

Thought, Some, Whim, Contradiction

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