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Samuel Pepys Quotes

Powerful Samuel Pepys for Daily Growth

About Samuel Pepys

Samuel Pepys (1633-1703), an eminent English diplomat and barrister, is renowned primarily for his detailed diary, which provides a unique insight into the politics, society, and culture of the late 17th century. Born on February 23, 1633, in London, England, Pepys was the son of a tailor and received education at various schools including Petty France School and Charterhouse School. After an initial career as a clerk, he moved to law and became a member of the Inner Temple, qualifying as a barrister in 1659. Pepys' political career began when he was appointed Clerk of the Acts for the Navy Board in 1660, a position he held until his retirement in 1689. His influence in naval affairs and the government grew significantly during the Restoration of Charles II, which led to his appointment as Secretary to the Admiralty Board in 1673. Pepys is best known for his diary, begun on January 1, 1660, and continued until May 31, 1669, with intermittent entries until May 30, 1679. The diary offers a vivid account of the Great Plague of London in 1665 and the Great Fire of London in 1666, as well as the political intrigues of the Restoration court. In addition to his political and literary contributions, Pepys was also a dedicated family man. He married Elizabeth Bland in December 1655, with whom he had nine children. Despite his busy career, Pepys found time for intellectual pursuits, including astronomy, which was reflected in his friendship with the astronomer John Flamsteed. Samuel Pepys died on May 26, 1703, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate scholars and readers alike. His diary, published posthumously, remains one of the most important primary sources for the understanding of the Restoration era in English history.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, nor hell a fury like ambition foiled."

This quote by Samuel Pepys speaks to the intense emotions that can arise when love is transformed into hatred or ambition is thwarted. It suggests that the passion and ferocity of these negative states can surpass even divine wrath or the fury of hell itself. In other words, when one experiences deep, unfulfilled love or frustrated ambition, they may feel an all-consuming anger that knows no bounds.

"But though I am sure I did nothing to offend anybody, yet I cannot but think it was my ill-luck and unlucky star that hath brought this upon me."

In this quote, Samuel Pepys acknowledges a situation that seems unfavorable to him, despite his belief in not having done anything wrong. He attributes the unfortunate event to bad luck or an unlucky star, implying that circumstances beyond his control have led to the predicament. This passage suggests humility, self-reflection, and acceptance of fate or destiny, a common theme in literature and life during Pepys' time.

"Tis a strange world, but all the stranger because we know so litte of what passes beyond our daily view."

This quote by Samuel Pepys highlights the human tendency to only perceive a small fraction of the world, leaving a vast majority unknown or unseen. It suggests that our understanding of the universe is limited to our immediate experiences, and we often overlook the mysteries hidden beyond our daily scope. The "strange" nature of the world thus stems from this gap in knowledge about its true depth and complexity.

"To be at once in love with two women is to invite discord into one's life."

The quote by Samuel Pepys suggests that having romantic feelings for more than one woman simultaneously can lead to disharmony or conflict within a person's life, as the competing affections may not only cause emotional distress but also create difficulties in maintaining honesty and loyalty towards both parties involved. It implies that focusing on one relationship at a time is essential to avoid such discord and maintain harmony in personal relationships.

"It was indeed a most precious and memorable day, full of variety, delight and surprise, which will remain forever fresh in my memory."

This quote by Samuel Pepys expresses that he experienced a remarkable day filled with diverse pleasures and unforgettable events. The words "precious," "memorable," "variety," "delight," and "surprise" suggest the day was significant, enjoyable, and memorable due to its unique experiences and unexpected moments. Essentially, Pepys is saying that this particular day left a lasting impression on him because of the richness of its experiences.

I went out to Charing Cross to see Major General Harrison hanged, drawn, and quartered; which was done there, he looking as cheerful as any man could in that condition.

- Samuel Pepys

Could, Cross, Which, Cheerful

Mighty proud I am that I am able to have a spare bed for my friends.

- Samuel Pepys

Friendship, Proud, Bed, Mighty

Strange, to see what delight we married people have to see these poor fools decoyed into our condition, every man and wife gazing and smiling at them.

- Samuel Pepys

Wife, Smiling, Every Man, Delight

Saw a wedding in the church. It was strange to see what delight we married people have to see these poor fools decoyed into our condition.

- Samuel Pepys

Wedding, Church, Saw, Delight

Thanks be to God. Since my leaving the drinking of wine, I do find myself much better, and do mind my business better, and do spend less money, and less time lost in idle company.

- Samuel Pepys

Mind, Drinking, Less Time, Wine

Strange to see how a good dinner and feasting reconciles everybody.

- Samuel Pepys

New Year's, See, How, Dinner

As happy a man as any in the world, for the whole world seems to smile upon me!

- Samuel Pepys

Smile, Happy, World, Seems

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