ProverbPerseverance
English origin1843
English origin1843Stars cannot shine without darkness
Meaning: Hardship and struggle are what allow our greatest qualities to become visible.
Origin: The idea goes back at least to Thomas Carlyle, who wrote in 1843 that the eternal stars shine out again as soon as it is dark enough. This short modern wording is credited to several recent authors, and no first source has been settled.
Explore another collection: Compliments & Insults
Compliments and insults from around the world, from the sweet to the savage.
- Sei un salame You're a clumsy, dopey softie — said with a smile.
- Eres más corto que las mangas de un chaleco You're not the sharpest — a bit slow on the uptake.
- Du bist nicht die hellste Kerze auf der Torte You're a little dim — not the smartest in the room.
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