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About this quote

What does it mean?
Trollope observes a gap between theoretical ideals and real-world experiences.
In plain terms
Life does not always match the theory.
What can you take from it?
Expectations often fail to match reality.

Where it applies

  • learning
  • planning
  • problem-solving

Putting it to work

  • test ideas
  • adapt plans
  • learn from mistakes

Questions to consider

  • Where has theory failed you?
  • How do you adjust expectations?

Another view

Theory can still guide action effectively.

More from Anthony Trollope

  1. It has been the great fault of our politicians that they have all wanted to do something.

    Permalink to quote #65
  2. She knew how to allure by denying, and to make the gift rich by delaying it.

    Permalink to quote #67
  3. Nothing reopens the springs of love so fully as absemce, and no absence so thoroughly as that which must needs be endless.

    Permalink to quote #64

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