The ambitious are forever followed by adulation for they receive the most pleasure from flattery

The ambitious are forever followed by adulation for they receive the most pleasure from flattery

Oliver Goldsmith, an Irish writer and poet known for his wit and satirical works, understood the allure of ambition and the praise that often accompanies it. In his own life, Goldsmith experienced both the highs and lows of ambition, from struggling to make a name for himself in the literary world to eventually achieving fame and recognition for his works.

Goldsmith's quote, "The ambitious are forever followed by adulation for they receive the most pleasure from flattery," speaks to the idea that those who are driven by ambition often seek validation and praise from others. This desire for recognition can be a powerful motivator, pushing individuals to work harder and strive for success in their chosen field. However, it can also lead to a reliance on flattery and external validation, which may not always be genuine or sincere.

In Goldsmith's own life, he faced criticism and rejection early in his career, struggling to gain recognition for his writing. Despite these setbacks, Goldsmith remained ambitious and continued to pursue his passion for literature. Eventually, his perseverance paid off, and he achieved success with works such as "The Vicar of Wakefield" and "The Deserted Village."

As Goldsmith's fame grew, so too did the adulation and praise he received from his peers and admirers. While this recognition may have brought him pleasure and satisfaction, it also came with its own set of challenges. Goldsmith's success made him a target for jealousy and criticism, and he often found himself embroiled in controversies and disputes with other writers and intellectuals.