Humankind is made up of many kinds of individuals, markedly different from one another. The Book of Common Prayer (1548) includes a Prayer for All Conditions of Men, which prays to God “for all sorts and conditions of men; that thou wouldest be pleased to make thy ways known unto them.” This may have been the source of the next version, “It takes all sorts to make a world”, which became current in the seventeenth century. Indeed, Samuel Johnson’s biographer, James Boswell, quotes philosopher John Locke as using this phrase. George Bernard Shaw was particularly fond of it. In the late nineteenth century, it was shortened to “it takes all sorts” and by now is a cliché.
Related and Similar Terms
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Variety is the spice of life 🌶️
- Definition: Life is more interesting when varied.
- Synonyms: Diversity enriches life, Change adds flavor to life.
- Antonyms: Monotony is dull, Uniformity is boring.
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Different strokes for different folks 🏊♂️
- Definition: Different people have different preferences or ways of doing things.
- Synonyms: To each their own, Everyone to his/her taste.
- Antonyms: One size fits all, Uniform approach.
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All in the same boat 🚣♀️
- Definition: Everyone is facing the same situation or challenge.
- Synonyms: United we stand, In this together.
- Antonyms: Isolated, Detached, Alone in the struggle.
Humor-Filled Quote
“Remember, no man is a failure who has friends.” — Fr. Clarence, It’s a Wonderful Life (1946).
Proverbs and References
- “Birds of a feather flock together” vs. “Opposites attract”: Two opposing proverbs that celebrate both similarity and diversity.
- George Bernard Shaw routinely celebrated the richness of human variation in his plays, particularly in Pygmalion.
Suggested Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Literature: The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, which showcases a variety of characters from different walks of life.
- Books: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, highlighting social diversity and justice.
- Songs: “Ebony and Ivory” by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder, celebrating racial harmony.
- Poetry: “Song of Myself” by Walt Whitman, which celebrates the individual and collective human experience.
- Movies: Crash (2004) showcasing a variety of interconnected lives within a diverse society.
Quizzes
Thank you for diving into the quirky yet enlightening world of clichés with us! Remember, as paradoxical as it may seem, sometimes it’s the overused and seemingly mundane phrases that can remind us of life’s deeper truths and vibrant diversity. Keep embracing all sorts—because that’s what makes the world an endlessly fascinating place.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell
Life is a magnificent tapestry woven with countless threads of experiences, personalities, and perspectives. Embrace the cliché: It truly does take all sorts to make our world extraordinary.
— Eloise Epigram, “It Takes All Sorts: The Diverse World of Clichés”, 2023.
