Men are but children of a larger growth, Our appetites as apt to change as theirs, And full as craving too, and full as vain.
John DrydenRead
When I consider life, it is all a cheat. Yet fooled with hope, people favor this deceit.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life can often feel deceptive, yet people remain hopeful despite these deceptions.
In this quote, John Dryden reflects on the inherent deceitfulness of life, suggesting that the experiences and expectations one has can lead to feelings of betrayal. Despite recognizing that life may not always be truthful or fair, individuals continue to embrace hope, which acts as a comforting illusion that encourages them to pursue their dreams and desires.
Themes
LifeDeceitHopePhilosophyIllusion
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about resilience in the face of life's challenges.
More from John Dryden
All quotes →Of no distemper, of no blast he died, _x000D_ But fell like autumn fruit that mellow'd long: _x000D_ Even wonder'd at, because he dropp'd no sooner. _x000D_ Fate seem'd to wind him up for fourscore years; _x000D_ Yet freshly ran he on ten winters more; _x000D_ Till like a clock worn out with eating time, _x000D_ The wheels of weary life at last stood still.
John DrydenRead
Or hast thou known the world so long in vain?
John DrydenRead
Shame on the body for breaking down while the spirit perseveres.
John DrydenRead
Love reckons hours for months, and days for years; and every little absence is an age.
John DrydenRead
And write whatever Time shall bring to pass_x000D_ _x000D_ With pens of adamant on plates of brass.
John DrydenRead
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