Earnestness is the best gift of mental power, and deficiency of heart is the cause of many men never becoming great

Earnestness is the best gift of mental power, and deficiency of heart is the cause of many men never becoming great

Edward Bulwer-Lytton, a prominent English novelist and politician, was a firm believer in the power of earnestness and the importance of having a strong heart in order to achieve greatness. In his works, he often emphasized the idea that mental power alone is not enough to succeed in life; one must also possess a genuine passion and sincerity in their pursuits.

Bulwer-Lytton understood that earnestness is the key to unlocking one's full potential. It is the driving force that propels individuals to work hard, stay focused, and persevere in the face of challenges. Without earnestness, mental power alone is not sufficient to achieve greatness. It is the combination of intelligence, determination, and sincerity that ultimately leads to success.

In his novel "The Last Days of Pompeii," Bulwer-Lytton explores the theme of earnestness through the character of Glaucus, a young Athenian nobleman who is determined to overcome the obstacles in his path and achieve his goals. Despite facing numerous trials and tribulations, Glaucus remains steadfast in his beliefs and unwavering in his pursuit of greatness. His earnestness and passion for life ultimately lead him to triumph over adversity and emerge as a hero.

On the other hand, Bulwer-Lytton also warns against the dangers of deficiency of heart. He believed that those who lack sincerity, passion, and genuine emotion in their endeavors are unlikely to achieve greatness. Without a strong heart, individuals are prone to giving up easily, losing motivation, and succumbing to self-doubt. It is the absence of earnestness that often holds people back from reaching their full potential and realizing their dreams.