William Hazlitt, born on April 10, 1778, in Maidstone, Kent, England, was a distinguished English essayist, critic, and philosopher. His career flourished in the Romantic era, where he became renowned for literary works like “The Spirit of the Age” and “Table-Talk,” offering sharp insights into human nature, society, and the arts. Hazlitt’s achievements include influential essays that shaped modern criticism and philosophy, earning him lasting recognition as a keen observer of life. The quotes here are sourced from his books and essays, reflecting his thoughtful explorations of existence. This list highlights 15 of his quotes specifically about life, providing a window into his reflective wisdom.
15 William Hazlitt Quotes
1. “Man is the only animal that laughs and weeps; for he is the only animal that is struck with the difference between what things are and what they ought to be.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
2. “Life is the art of drawing sufficient conclusions from insufficient premises.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
3. “The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
4. “We do not see with our eyes, but with our understanding and our hearts.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
5. “Time is the most undefinable yet paradoxical of things; the past is gone, the future is not come, and the present becomes the past even while we attempt to define it.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
6. “To be happy, we must not be too conscious of happiness.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
7. “The soul of a journey is liberty, perfect liberty, to think, feel, do just as one pleases.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
8. “Books are the true levellers. They give to all, who will faithfully use them, the society, the spiritual presence, of the best and greatest of our race.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
9. “Life is a progress from want to want, not from enjoyment to enjoyment.” (Book, “The Plain Speaker”, 1826)
10. “We are what we are, and not what we wish to be.” (Book, “The Plain Speaker”, 1826)
11. “The love of life is the love of others; the love of power is the love of ourselves.” (Book, “Political Essays”, 1819)
12. “One must be poor to know the luxury of giving.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
13. “The more we do, the more we can do.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
14. “Life without labour is guilt; labour with integrity is holiness.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
15. “We grow tired of everything but turning others into ridicule, and congratulating ourselves on their defects.” (Book, “Table-Talk”, 1821)
These quotes from William Hazlitt illuminate his deep understanding of life’s intricacies, revealing a man who grappled with its joys, sorrows, and absurdities. They showcase his philosophical depth and empathetic view of human experiences, reminding us of the timeless relevance of his insights. We invite you to share your thoughts or a favorite quote in the comments below—how do Hazlitt’s words resonate with your own life?