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Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom of peace.
Eugene O'Neill
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects on the pursuit of unattainable ideals, highlighting the human tendency to seek perfection or peace in life.

Eugene O'Neill's quote suggests that many people are consumed by their fantasies or ideals, which leads them to constantly search for an escape from reality in the hope of finding a perfect existence or inner peace. This obsession can distract individuals from appreciating and engaging with the present, instead of fostering discontent with the reality of their lives as they chase after an elusive 'magic door' that symbolizes an idealized state of being.

Themes

ObsessionFantasyLifePeacePursuit

In practice

Example use cases

In a motivational speech about the importance of living in the present.

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There is no present or future-only the past, happening over and over again-now.
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Life is a solitary cell whose walls are mirrors.
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Quote by Eugene O'Neill | QuoteProject