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
But Philip was impatient with himself; he called to mind his idea of the pattern of life: the unhappiness he had suffered was no more than part of a decoration which was elaborate and beautiful; he told himself strenuously that he must accept with gaiety everything, dreariness and excitement, pleasure and pain, because it added to the richness of the design.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of accepting both joy and suffering as integral parts of life's rich tapestry.
In this quote, W. Somerset Maugham reflects on the duality of life, suggesting that both happiness and unhappiness contribute to a greater, intricate experience. He encourages an acceptance of life's varied moments, including the dreariness and excitement, as essential components that embellish the overall design of one’s existence. This perspective invites individuals to appreciate the full spectrum of life’s emotions as enriching rather than viewing difficulties as mere burdens.
Themes
LifeAcceptanceHappinessPainExperience
In practice
Example use cases
During a motivational speech about resilience and embracing life's challenges.
More from W. Somerset Maugham
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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.
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