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Revenge is barren of itself: it is the dreadful food it feeds on; its delight is murder, and its end is despair.
Friedrich Schiller
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Revenge ultimately leads to destruction and despair rather than satisfaction.

This quote by Friedrich Schiller reflects on the nature of revenge, suggesting that while it may seem satisfying in the moment, it ultimately leads to a cycle of violence and despair. Schiller emphasizes that revenge is a hollow pursuit that feeds on itself, suggesting that the desire for revenge only brings about further suffering rather than resolution or joy.

Themes

RevengeDespairSufferingViolenceForgiveness

In practice

Example use cases

During a discussion on the consequences of holding grudges, one might reference Schiller's quote to emphasize the futility of revenge.

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Wise to resolve, patient to perform.
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