Where shall we look for standard English, but to the words of a standard man?

This quote by Henry David Thoreau suggests that the best example of standard English can be found in the speech and writings of a ‘standard man’, which could be interpreted as an individual who is well-educated, well-read, and articulate. In other words, the language used by a person who is considered to be a model of intellectual and cultural refinement would be the benchmark for standard English.

Thoreau’s quote emphasizes the importance of education and personal refinement in language use. The ‘standard man’ in this context is not just a native speaker, but someone who has honed his language skills, has a wide vocabulary, and can express his thoughts clearly and effectively. This person would be a role model for others to emulate in their quest to master the English language.

Applying this idea in today’s world, it suggests that if we want to learn and master standard English, we should look to individuals who are recognized for their proficiency in the language. This could be authors, journalists, public speakers, or educators. By reading their works, listening to their speeches, and studying their use of language, we can improve our own English skills.

In terms of personal development, this quote underscores the importance of continuous learning and improvement. It encourages us to always strive for excellence, not just in language use, but in all aspects of our lives. By setting high standards for ourselves and working hard to achieve them, we can become ‘standard men’ and ‘standard women’ in our own right.