None are so old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.
Henry David ThoreauRead
We soon get through with nature. She excites an expectation which she cannot satisfy.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Nature inspires hope and anticipation, but often leaves us wanting more.
In this quote, Thoreau reflects on the relationship humans have with nature, suggesting that while we are often captivated by its beauty and splendor, there is an inherent frustration in our inability to fully grasp or satisfy our expectations of it. Nature stirs our imagination and desires, yet it remains elusive and beyond our control, highlighting a profound disconnect in our quest for understanding its essence.
Themes
NatureExpectationBeautyFrustrationConnect
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about environmental conservation, one might use this quote to highlight our complicated relationship with nature.
More from Henry David Thoreau
All quotes βThrough want of enterprise and faith men are where they are, buying and selling and spending their lives like servants.
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Have no mean hours, but be grateful for every hour, and accept what it brings. The reality will make any sincere record respectable.
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As every season seems best to us in its turn, so the coming in of spring is like the creation of Cosmos out of Chaos and the realization of the Golden Age.
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That grand old poem called Winter
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