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Happiness is neither virtue nor pleasure nor this thing nor that but simply growth, We are happy when we are growing.
William Butler Yeats
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Happiness comes from personal growth rather than external pleasures or virtues.

In this quote, William Butler Yeats suggests that true happiness is not found in fleeting pleasures, moral virtues, or particular achievements. Instead, he emphasizes that it stems from continuous growth and development as individuals. This perspective encourages a focus on self-improvement and personal evolution as the key to achieving lasting joy.

Themes

HappinessGrowthSelf-ImprovementPersonal Development

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be shared during motivational speeches about personal growth.

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If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
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