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About this quote

What does it mean?
Carlyle criticizes the English for their ability to act heroically while lacking the eloquence to articulate those deeds.
In plain terms
The English can do great things but struggle to explain them well.
What can you take from it?
Action without expression limits influence.

Where it applies

  • historical analysis
  • cultural critique
  • leadership review

Putting it to work

  • study historical records
  • improve communication
  • evaluate leadership

Questions to consider

  • How does culture shape expression?
  • Do actions speak louder than words?

Another view

This generalizes a whole nation and ignores notable English writers.

More from Thomas Carlyle

  1. Every pitifulest whipster that walks within a skin has had his head filled with the notion that he is, shall be, or by all human and divine laws ought to be, '…

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  2. Every noble crown is, and on earth will forever be, a crown of thorns.

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  3. All work, even cotton spinning, is noble; work is alone noble...A life of ease is not for any man, nor for any god.

    Permalink to quote #89

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