Quote by James Russell Lowell

Compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof; it is temporary expedient, often wise in party politics, almost sure to be unwise in statesmanship.

Compromise makes a good umbrella, but a poor roof; it is tem

Summary

This quote suggests that compromise, while useful in certain situations such as party politics, should be approached with caution in statesmanship. Compromise may provide a temporary solution or a quick fix, similar to how an umbrella provides temporary shelter from the rain. However, relying on compromise alone to address complex issues, like building a proper roof, can lead to unwise decisions. Statesmanship requires long-term vision and the ability to find sustainable solutions, often going beyond compromise to ensure the well-being of the state and its citizens.

By James Russell Lowell

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