To be incapable of taking one’s enemies, one’s accidents, even one’s misdeeds seriously for very long - that is the sign of strong full natures in whom there is an excess of power to form, to mold, to recuperate and to forget. Mirabeau had no memory for insults and vile actions done to him and was unable to forgive simply because he - forgot. Such a man shakes off with a single shrug the many vermin that eat deep into others. Friedrich Nietzsche
About This Quote

Evaluating the inner life of a person is not always easy. Particularly when the person in question is one of the most charismatic leaders in history. Mirabeau was a French statesman, writer, politician, and revolutionary. He was born in 1749, lived to be 80 years old, and gave his name to the province of Quebec in Canada.

He had a fiery temperament that made him incredibly popular with the people while he was alive, but he has moved into infamy since his death. During his lifetime it was said that he was an alcoholic who had trouble keeping friends. At least one historian has given credit to his wife for keeping him on track during his later years.

A man who was capable of inspiring millions of people for decades with his words and actions may have been capable of great things if he paid more attention to details.

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More Quotes By Friedrich Nietzsche
  1. It is not a lack of love, but a lack of friendship that makes unhappy marriages.
  2. There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness.
  3. The man of knowledge must be able not only to love his enemies but also to hate his friends.
  4. One ought to hold on to one's heart; for if one lets it go, one soon loses control of the head too.
  5. Amor Fati — “Love Your Fate”, which is in fact your life.
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