Writing is my vacation from living.
Eugene O'NeillRead
Obsessed by a fairy tale, we spend our lives searching for a magic door and a lost kingdom of peace.
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.
More from Eugene O'Neill
All quotes βWhen you're 50 you start thinking about things you haven't thought about before. I used to think getting old was about vanity - but actually it's about losing people you love. Getting wrinkles is trivial.
Eugene O'NeillRead
I am so far from being a pessimist...on the contrary, in spite of my scars, I am tickled to death at life.
Eugene O'NeillRead
I have had my dance with Folly, nor do I shirk the blame; I have sipped the so-called Wine of Life and paid the price of shame; But I know that I shall find surcease, the rest my spirit craves, Where the rainbows play in the flying spray, 'Mid the keen salt kiss of the waves.
Eugene O'NeillRead
There is no present or future-only the past, happening over and over again-now.
Eugene O'NeillRead
Life is a solitary cell whose walls are mirrors.
Eugene O'NeillRead
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