Quote of the day by LM Montgomery: 'Next to trying and winning, the best thing is trying and failing'; life lessons from Anne Of Green Gables author

True fulfillment does not come only from victory, but from the act of striving itself. Challenges, hardships, and persistent effort can bring a unique sense of purpose and satisfaction. When a person gives their best, they begin to understand that growth lies in the process, not just the outcome.

Winning, of course, is rewarding, but the quote emphasizes that even failure holds immense worth. Trying and failing still means one had the courage to act, to risk disappointment, and to push beyond comfort. Such experiences build character, wisdom, and inner strength. In this way, failure becomes a meaningful teacher rather than a defeat. Ultimately, the quote encourages embracing both success and failure, recognizing that sincere effort is what truly enriches life.

Centuries ago, celebrated writer LM Montgomery wrote about the importance of trying and failing in her seminal work Anne Of Green Gables.

LM Montgomery On Importance Of Failure’

The author wrote: “I’ve done my best, and I begin to understand what is meant by ‘the joy of strife’. Next to trying and winning, the best thing is trying and failing.”

Deeper Meaning Of The Quote

This quote captures the quiet dignity of effort and the hidden beauty within struggle. It suggests that when someone gives their absolute best, they begin to discover a deeper kind of fulfillment—the “joy of strife.” This joy does not come from ease or comfort, but from engaging fully with challenges, pushing limits, and refusing to give up despite difficulties.

It reflects a mindset where the journey matters as much as the destination.
While success brings satisfaction, the quote places equal, if not greater, value on the act of trying itself. Even failure becomes meaningful because it represents courage, persistence, and a willingness to grow. Trying and failing still enriches the soul, teaching lessons that success alone cannot provide. In this sense, failure is not an endpoint but a vital part of personal evolution. Ultimately, the quote encourages embracing effort wholeheartedly, seeing both victory and defeat as essential experiences that shape character and give life its depth.

Relevance Of This Quote

This quote remains deeply relevant in today’s fast-paced, results-driven world where success is often valued more than effort. It reminds us that striving sincerely, regardless of the outcome, holds its own worth. In an age of constant comparison and pressure to achieve perfection, the idea of finding “joy in strife” encourages people to embrace challenges instead of fearing them. It shifts the focus from outcomes to growth, resilience, and self-discovery.

The message is especially meaningful for students, professionals, and anyone facing setbacks. It reassures that failure is not a sign of inadequacy but proof of courage and willingness to try. Even when success is not achieved, the process builds strength, experience, and character. This perspective helps reduce the fear of failure and promotes a healthier, more balanced approach to life. Ultimately, the quote teaches that effort, persistence, and learning matter just as much as, if not more than, winning.

Early Life and Literary Identity

Lucy Maud Montgomery, widely recognized by her pen name L. M. Montgomery, was a celebrated Canadian writer born in the late nineteenth century. Over time, she built a remarkable literary identity through her storytelling and creative expression. Her writing career gained momentum in the early 1900s, when she introduced readers to a body of work that would eventually span novels, essays, poems, and short fiction. Her distinctive narrative voice and ability to craft emotionally rich characters set her apart in the literary world, allowing her to develop a strong and lasting connection with readers across generations.

Prolific Career and Creative Range

Throughout her professional journey, Montgomery demonstrated extraordinary productivity and versatility. She authored twenty novels and created more than a thousand pieces of shorter writing, including poems and short stories. In addition to her fiction, she consistently wrote essays, showcasing her thoughtful observations and reflective style. Her ability to work across multiple literary forms revealed not only her discipline but also her deep passion for storytelling. This wide-ranging output established her as one of the most influential literary figures of her time.

Global Success of Anne of Green Gables

Her breakthrough came with the publication of Anne of Green Gables, a novel that quickly captured the imagination of readers. The story’s central figure, Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited orphan, became an iconic character in literature. The overwhelming popularity of this book brought Montgomery widespread recognition during her lifetime and secured her an international audience. The success of the novel also led to a series of related works, further strengthening her legacy and ensuring that her characters remained beloved across cultures and generations.

Prince Edward Island as a Literary Landmark

A significant portion of Montgomery’s stories were set in Prince Edward Island, a region that played a central role in shaping her narratives. Through her vivid descriptions and deep connection to the landscape, she transformed the island into a symbolic and memorable setting in literature. Locations associated with her works, especially the setting that inspired Green Gables, became widely admired. Over time, these places evolved into important cultural and tourist destinations, drawing visitors eager to experience the environment that influenced her storytelling.

Enduring Legacy and Scholarly Interest

Montgomery’s influence extends far beyond her lifetime. Her personal writings, including journals and correspondence, have provided valuable insight into her creative process and inner life. These materials continue to be examined by scholars and enthusiasts around the world, highlighting the depth and complexity of her work. Academic institutions have also dedicated efforts to preserving and studying her contributions, ensuring that her impact on literature and culture remains significant. Her legacy endures through both her published works and the continued interest in her life and artistic achievements.