Henry Fielding
Henry Fielding
Henry Fieldingwas an English novelist and dramatist best known for his rich, earthy humour and satirical prowess, and as the author of the novel Tom Jones. Additionally, he holds a significant place in the history of law enforcement, having used his authority as a magistrate to foundwhat some have called London's first police force, the Bow Street Runners. His younger sister, Sarah, also became a successful writer...
NationalityEnglish
ProfessionNovelist
Date of Birth22 April 1707
character errors perfect
It is an error common to many to take the character of mankind from the worst and basest amongst them; whereas, as an excellent writer has observed, nothing should be esteemed as characteristical, of a species but what is to be found amongst the best and the most perfect individuals of that species.
character evil balance
We should not be too hasty in bestowing either our praise or censure on mankind, since we shall often find such a mixture of good and evil in the same character, that it may require a very accurate judgment and a very elaborate inquiry to determine on which side the balance turns.
proportion wells traveller
Good writers will, indeed, do well to imitate the ingenious traveller. . .who always proportions his stay in any place.
pain men heaven
A man may go to heaven with half the pains it cost him to purchase hell.
men boat excellent
It is admirably remarked, by a most excellent writer, that zeal can no more hurry a man to act in direct opposition to itself than a rapid stream can carry a boat against its own current.
memories writing lasting
Setting down in writing, is a lasting memory.
eye nine lasts
A wonder lasts but nine days, and then the puppy's eyes are open.
character enough easy
With the latitude of unbounded scurrility, it is easy enough to attain the character of a wit, especially when it is considered how wonderfully pleasant it is to the generality of the public to see the folly of their acquaintance exposed by a third person.
success growth fruit
Success is a fruit of slow growth.
mind body pleasure
Sensuality not only debases both body and mind, but dulls the keen edge of pleasure.
men enemy world
Prudence is a duty which we owe ourselves, and if we will be so much our own enemies as to neglect it, we are not to wonder if the world is deficient in discharging their duty to us; for when a man lays the foundation of his own ruin, others too often are apt to build upon it.
two mind operations
Nothing can be so quick and sudden as the operations of the mind, especially when hope, or fear, or jealousy, to which the other two are but journeymen, set it to work.
love eye break-out
Love may be likened to a disease in this respect, that when it is denied a vent in one part, it will certainly break out in another; hence what a woman's lips often conceal, her eyes, her blushes, and many little involuntary actions betray.
love quality may
Beauty may be the object of liking--great qualities of admiration--good ones of esteem--but love only is the object of love.