The comic spirit is given to us in order that we may analyze, weigh, and clarify things in us which nettle us, or which we are outgrowing, or trying to reshape
Thornton WilderRead
When you're at war, you think about a better life; when you're at peace you think about a more comfortable one.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that hardship inspires thoughts of improvement, while ease leads to complacency.
Thornton Wilder's quote reflects on the human mindset during different states of existence. When faced with struggle or adversity, individuals are often motivated to seek a better life, pushing them towards change and improvement. In contrast, during peaceful and comfortable times, there is a tendency to become more focused on maintaining that comfort rather than aspiring for growth. This serves as a reminder of the impact of our circumstances on our aspirations and desires.
Themes
WarPeaceLifeComfortAspirationAdversity
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on personal growth, one could use this quote to highlight the importance of striving for improvement during difficult times.
More from Thornton Wilder
All quotes →A man looks pretty small at a wedding, George. All those good women standing shoulder to shoulder, making sure that the knot's tied in a mighty public way.
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Good-by, Good-by, world. Good-by, Grover's Corners... Mama and Papa. Good-by to clocks ticking... and Mama's sunflowers. And food and coffee. And new-ironed dresses and hot baths...and sleeping and waking up. Oh, earth, you're too wonderful for anybody to realize you.
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When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home.
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Many great writers have been extraordinarily awkward in daily exchange, but the greatest give the impression that their style was nursed by the closest attention to colloquial speech.
Thornton WilderRead
I want you to try and remember what it was like to have been very young. And particularly the days when you were first in love; when you were like a person sleepwalking, and you didn’t quite see the street you were in, and didn’t quite hear everything that was said to you. You’re just a little bit crazy. Will you remember that, please?
Thornton WilderRead
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