We must never expect discretion in first love: it is accompanied by such excessive joy that unless the joy is allowed to overflow, it will choke you.
Alexandre DumasRead
That is a dream also; only he has remained asleep, while you have awakened; and who knows which of you is the most fortunate?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the distinction between dreaming and waking life, suggesting that both states hold value and questioning who is truly fortunate.
In this thought-provoking quote by Alexandre Dumas, the idea is presented that dreaming, whether in the literal or metaphorical sense, is a significant part of human experience. It contrasts the one who dreams with the one who awakens, suggesting that there is fortune in both states, and it encourages contemplation about the nature of reality and success. The quote invites reflection on whether it is better to be awake to life's realities or to revel in the dreams that may hold their own kind of truth and possibility.
Themes
DreamAwakeFortunateRealityPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
In a graduation speech to inspire students about following their dreams.
More from Alexandre Dumas
All quotes βThere are two ways of seeing: with the body and with the soul. The body's sight can sometimes forget, but the soul remembers forever.
Alexandre DumasRead
I do not often laugh, sir, as you may perceive by the air of my countenance; but nevertheless, I retain the privilege of laughing when I please.
Alexandre DumasRead
There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state with another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness.
Alexandre DumasRead
Those born to wealth, and who have the means of gratifying every wish, know not what is the real happiness of life, just as those who have been tossed on the stormy waters of the ocean on a few frail planks can alone realize the blessings of fair weather.
Alexandre DumasRead
It is the way of weakened minds to see everything through a black cloud. The soul forms its own horizons; your soul is darkened, and consequently the sky of the future appears stormy and unpromising
Alexandre DumasRead
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