The common idea that success spoils people by making them vain, egotistic and self-complacent is erroneous; on the contrary it makes them, for the most part, humble, tolerant and kind.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
Nothing in the world is permanent, and we’re foolish when we ask anything to last, but surely we’re still more foolish not to take delight in it while we have it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Life is transient, making it important to appreciate the moment.
This quote emphasizes the impermanence of everything in life, suggesting that it is unwise to expect permanence. Instead, we should focus on enjoying and cherishing the experiences we have while they last, as they are fleeting and valuable.
Themes
ImpermanenceAppreciationDelightLifeEnjoyment
In practice
Example use cases
During a wedding toast, one might say this quote to remind guests to cherish the fleeting moments.
More from W. Somerset Maugham
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Are you sure you can prevent yourself from falling in love one of these days? Such things do happen, you know, even to the most prudent men.' Simon gave him a strange, one might even have thought a hostile, look. I should tear it out of my heart as I'd wrench out of my mouth a rotten tooth.
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I don't think of the past. The only thing that matters is the everlasting present.
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The world is quickly bored by the recital of misfortune, and willing avoids the sight of distress.
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There in the mist, enormous, majestic, silent and terrible, stood the Great Wall of China. Solitarily, with the indifference of nature herself, it crept up the mountain side and slipped down to the depth of the valley.
W. Somerset MaughamRead
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