"I have been over into the future, and it works."

Time

Create & Download Quote Graphic

Customize Image

1. Canvas Aspect Ratio

2. Palette Theme

Thematic Reflection

This quotation examines the core nature of Time as articulated by Lincoln Steffens. Within historical and literary traditions, reflections on Time provide actionable mental models, challenging individuals to evaluate personal ethics, self-discipline, and daily actions.

Explore all Time quotes → Browse all wisdom by Lincoln Steffens →

About Lincoln Steffens

Joseph Lincoln Steffens was an American investigative journalist and one of the leading muckrakers of the Progressive Era in the early 20th century. He launched a series of articles in McClure's, called "Tweed Days in St. Louis", that would later be published together in a book titled The Shame of the Cities. He is remembered for investigating corruption in municipal government in American cities and for his balanced views.

View all quotes by Lincoln Steffens →
Editorial Integrity: Curated and fact-checked under our Editorial Standards to eliminate misattributions and preserve historical authenticity.
Learn about our methodology →

More by Lincoln Steffens

"Art is like a border of flowers along the course of civilization."

— Lincoln Steffens
Read more →

More about Time

"There is slow growth, but it is positive slow growth. At the same time, ratios of debt-to-incomes go down. That's a beautiful deleveraging."

— Ray Dalio
Read more →

"Just stop for a minute and you'll realize you're happy just being. I think it's the pursuit that screws up happiness. If we drop the pursuit, it's right here."

— James Hillman
Read more →

"The absent are never without fault. Nor the present without excuse."

— Michael Caine
Read more →

"The best thing about the future is that it comes only one day at a time."

— Dean Acheson
Read more →
Browse all Time quotes →