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You must learn some of my philosophy. Think only of the past as its remembrance gives you pleasure.
Jane Austen
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Focus on pleasant memories from the past rather than dwelling on negative experiences.

In this quote, Jane Austen emphasizes the importance of a positive outlook on the past. By encouraging us to remember only the pleasurable moments, she suggests that our reflections can shape our current happiness and perspective, allowing the past to enrich our lives rather than burden us with sorrow or regret.

Themes

PhilosophyPastRemembrancePleasureHappiness

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech about mental well-being.

More from Jane Austen

I pay very little regard...to what any young person says on the subject of marriage. If they profess a disinclination for it, I only set it down that they have not yet seen the right person.
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Nobody could catch cold by the sea; nobody wanted appetite by the sea; nobody wanted spirits; nobody wanted strength. Sea air was healing, softening, relaxing - fortifying and bracing - seemingly just as was wanted - sometimes one, sometimes the other. If the sea breeze failed, the seabath was the certain corrective; and where bathing disagreed, the sea air alone was evidently designed by nature for the cure.
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He certainly is very agreeable, and I give you leave to like him. You have liked many a stupider person.
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You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. Tell me not that I am too late, that such precious feelings are gone for ever.
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She hoped to be wise and reasonable in time; but alas! Alas! She must confess to herself that she was not wise yet.
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