If a poet interprets a poem of his own he limits its suggestibility.
William Butler YeatsRead
Life is a long preparation for something that never happens.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life involves extensive planning and anticipation, yet often leads to unfulfilled expectations.
William Butler Yeats' quote reflects the paradox of life where individuals invest a significant amount of time and effort in preparing for events or achievements that may ultimately never occur. It highlights the futility and uncertainty inherent in life's journey, suggesting that much of our lives are spent preparing for outcomes that may not come to fruition, prompting us to reconsider how we approach our goals and aspirations.
Themes
LifePreparationExpectationsFutilityJourney
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a motivational speech about embracing the present instead of only focusing on future plans.
More from William Butler Yeats
All quotes βIt was my first meeting with a philosophy that confirmed my vague speculations and seemed at once logical and boundless.
William Butler YeatsRead
But I, being poor, have only my dreams; I have spread my dreams under your feet; Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.
William Butler YeatsRead
How far away the stars seem, and how far is our first kiss, and ah, how old my heart.
William Butler YeatsRead
For he would be thinking of love Till the stars had run away And the shadows eaten the moon.
William Butler YeatsRead
Love is created and preserved by intellectual analysis, for we love only that which is unique, and it belongs to contemplation, not to action, for we would not change that which we love.
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