Here lies our good Edmund, whose genius was such, We scarcely can praise it, or blame it too much; Who, born for the universe, narrowed his mind, And to party gave up what was meant for mankind... Who, too deep for his hearers, still went on refining. And thought of convincing while they thought of dining; Though equal to all things, for all things unfit; Too nice for a statesman, too proud for a wit.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Edmund wasted universal genius on petty party politics.
- In plain terms
- Great talent can be narrowed by ambition.
- What can you take from it?
- Don't trade broad potential for narrow power.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Did Edmund choose wrongly?
Another view
It assumes political life is always limiting.
More from Oliver Goldsmith
Our Garrick's a salad; for in him we see Oil, vinegar, sugar, and saltness agree!
Permalink to quote #83 His conduct still right, with his argument wrong.
Permalink to quote #85 We modest Gentlemen don't want for much success among the women.
Permalink to quote #82
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