"He has not learned the first lesson of life who does not every day surmount a fear."

Fear

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Insight & Reflection

This reflection on fear by John Dryden resonates across generations. It highlights a fundamental truth about human nature: our continuous search for meaning in fear is what ultimately defines our character and our path forward.

About John Dryden

John Dryden was an English poet, literary critic, translator, and playwright who in 1668 was appointed England's first Poet Laureate. He is seen as dominating the literary life of Restoration England to such a point that the period came to be known in literary circles as the Age of Dryden. Romantic writer Sir Walter Scott called him "Glorious John".

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Editorial Note: This quote is curated and fact-checked by the Quotes Archive Editorial Team. Verified Literature Specialist.

More by John Dryden

"Better to hunt in fields, for health unbought, Than fee the doctor for a nauseous draught. The wise, for cure, on exercise depend; God never made his work for man to mend."

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More about Fear

"Look not mournfully into the past, it comes not back again. Wisely improve the present, it is thine. Go forth to meet the shadowy future without fear and with a manly heart."

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"Fear will knock at every door; only those with resolved hearts refuse to let it enter. For where clarity resides, peace inevitably follows."

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"Fear will knock at every door; only those with resolved hearts refuse to let it enter. Reflect upon this whenever doubt clouds your horizon."

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