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About this quote

What does it mean?
Happiness is solid while joy is liquid; this difference is clear only after the fact.
In plain terms
Happiness is solid and joy is liquid.
What can you take from it?
Happiness is stable; joy is fluid.

Where it applies

  • describing emotions
  • self-reflection
  • philosophy

Putting it to work

  • distinguish feelings
  • appreciate emotional nuance

Questions to consider

  • Is joy fluid?
  • How do you describe happiness?

Another view

Metaphors may not match personal experience.

More from J. D. Salinger

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  3. He said I was unequipped to meet life because I had no sense of humor.

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