A. C. Benson Quotes, Arthur Christopher Benson—essayist, poet, and the reflective voice behind the lyrics of “Land of Hope and Glory”—was a master of introspection and quiet wisdom. As the 28th Master of Magdalene College, Cambridge, and a prolific diarist who penned over four million words, Benson’s writings delve into the soul’s longings, the beauty of solitude, and the subtle art of living meaningfully. His essays, ghost stories, and personal reflections continue to resonate with those who seek depth and clarity in a noisy world.
15 A. C. Benson Quotes
1. “All the best stories are but one story in reality—the story of escape. It is the only thing which interests us all and at all times—how to escape.” —Escape, and Other Essays (1915)
2. “Very often a change of self is needed more than a change of scene.” —The Thread of Gold (1907)
3. “I believe in instinct, not reason. When reason is right, nine times out of ten it is impotent, and when it prevails, nine times out of ten it is wrong.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
4. “A well begun is half ended.” —The Silent Isle (1913)
5. “One’s mind has a way of making itself up in the background, and it suddenly becomes clear what one means to do.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
6. “People seldom refuse help, if one offers it in the right way.” —Beside Still Waters (1908)
7. “Congenial labor is the secret of happiness.” —The Silent Isle (1913)
8. “I don’t like authority, at least I don’t like other people’s authority.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
9. “The worst sorrows in life are not in its losses and misfortunes, but its fears.” —The Thread of Gold (1907)
10. “The friend is the person whom one is in need of and by whom one is needed.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
11. “Knowing what you cannot do is more important than knowing what you can do. In fact, that’s good taste.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
12. “It is often wonderful how putting down on paper a clear statement of a case helps one to see, not perhaps the way out, but the way in.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
13. “Life is a sweeter, stronger, fuller, more gracious thing for the friend’s existence, whether he be near or far.” —The Thread of Gold (1907)
14. “I read the newspaper avidly. It is my one form of continuous fiction.” —The Upton Letters (1905)
15. “The awful penalty of success is the haunting dread of subsequent failure.” —Escape, and Other Essays (1915)
A. C. Benson’s words are a balm for the introspective soul—a gentle guide through life’s complexities, offering clarity, comfort, and quiet strength. Whether pondering the nature of success, the essence of friendship, or the pursuit of inner peace, his reflections invite us to look inward and embrace the journey of self-discovery.
Which of these quotes speaks to your heart? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s reflect and grow together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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