We go all wrong by too strenuous a resolution to go right. - Nathaniel HawthorneNathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer. Among his ancestors was John Hathorne, who was a judge at the Salem Witch Trials. He was the only one who never repented his actions, thus prompting Nathaniel to change the spelling of his name so as not to be associated with him.
He published several short stories and novels, including The Scarlet Letter and Twice Told Tales.
In an effort to do the right thing, we often make mistakes when we try too hard to accomplish a task, realize a dream or even lend a helping hand.
Great quote. When I was a politician I learned that sometimes you have to let go and let someone else believe they are right.
ReplyDeleteFunny, we were just having a conversation about this at work... we have a new supplier who is trying so hard to win our account but everything they do for us goes wrong. No matter how hard they try for it to go right. And it seems the harder they try, the more things go wrong!
ReplyDeleteThat is a very interesting fact about his ancestor, John Hathorne. I had never heard that.
ReplyDeleteAND that is a really good quote, as well.
I agree about the mini-history lesson. I didn't know this, but I might change my name, too, in similar circumstances.
ReplyDeleteI really liked YOUR take on this quote. This is one of my favorite things about your quote series.
Lots of people put up quote, but they don't talk about what the quote means to them or what it could mean to their readers. I like that you do this:~)