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About this quote

What does it mean?
Shaw defines hell as an endless holiday, implying boredom and lack of purpose.
In plain terms
A never ending break would be terrible.
What can you take from it?
Purpose and work give life structure.

Where it applies

  • existential discussions
  • work-life balance
  • vacation critiques

Putting it to work

  • find meaningful work
  • avoid idleness
  • seek purpose

Questions to consider

  • Is rest essential or burdensome?
  • What makes life meaningful?

Another view

Some people thrive during extended leisure time.

More from George Bernard Shaw

  1. Optimistic lies have such immense therapeutic value that a doctor who cannot tell them convincingly has mistaken his profession.

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  2. I like a bit of a mongrel myself, whether it's a man or a dog; they're the best for every day.

    Permalink to quote #156
  3. It is more dangerous to be a great prophet or poet than to promote twenty companies for swindling simple folk out of their savings.

    Permalink to quote #153

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