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About this quote

What does it mean?
Webster questions the purpose of fools' pursuits, describing life as a mist of error and death as a terrifying storm.
In plain terms
Foolish pursuits lead to a life of error and a terrifying death.
What can you take from it?
Avoid meaningless pursuits that lead to confusion and fear.

Where it applies

  • aimless ambition
  • existential reflection

Putting it to work

  • choose purposeful goals
  • embrace clarity

Questions to consider

  • What defines a purposeful life?
  • How do we confront existential fear?

Another view

Labeling others as fools can be dismissive and unproductive.

More from John Webster

  1. Glories, like glowworms, afar off shine bright, But looked to near have neither heat nor light.

    Permalink to quote #8
  2. I know death hath ten thousand several doors For men to take their exits.

    Permalink to quote #10
  3. Prosperity doth bewitch men, seeming clear; But seas do laugh, show white, when rocks are near.

    Permalink to quote #7

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