More company increases happiness, but does not lighten or diminish misery.
Thomas TraherneRead
You never enjoy the world aright, till the Sea itself flowers in your veins,_x000D_ till you are clothed with the heavens, and crowned with the stars: and_x000D_ perceive yourself to be the sole heir of the whole world, and more than_x000D_ so, because men and women are in it who are every one sole heirs as well_x000D_ as you. Till you can sing and rejoice and delight, as misers do in gold, and_x000D_ kings in scepters, you never enjoy the world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True enjoyment of the world comes when we recognize our connection to it and to others.
In this quote, Thomas Traherne emphasizes that genuine joy and appreciation for life arise when individuals realize their intrinsic connection to the universe and to fellow human beings. This understanding transforms one’s perspective, allowing for a deeper experience of life, much like how a miser treasures gold or a king cherishes power, cultivating a sense of richness and fulfillment in the world around them.
Themes
EnjoymentConnectionJoyLifeAppreciationWorld
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about environmentalism, one could use this quote to highlight our connection to nature.
More from Thomas Traherne
All quotes →We do not ignore maturity. Maturity consists in not losing the past while fully living in the present with a prudent awareness of the possibilities of the future.
Thomas TraherneRead
Happiness was not made to be boasted, but enjoyed. Therefore tho others count me miserable, I will not believe them if I know and feel myself to be happy; nor fear them.
Thomas TraherneRead
To love one person with a private love is poor and miserable: to love all is glorious.
Thomas TraherneRead
You never know yourself till you know more than your body.
Thomas TraherneRead
Certainly Adam in Paradise had not more sweet and curious apprehensions of the world, than I when I was a child.
Thomas TraherneRead
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