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About this quote

What does it mean?
Societies rely on illusions to keep people engaged with life and prevent early resignation.
In plain terms
People need illusions to keep going and not give up on life.
What can you take from it?
Illusions help humans endure life and avoid giving up.

Where it applies

  • daily living
  • coping
  • societal structure

Putting it to work

  • find motivating narratives
  • question blind faith

Questions to consider

  • What illusions keep you going?
  • Can you live without them?

Another view

Reality based acceptance can also sustain people without illusions.

More from Joseph Conrad

  1. It is not the clear-sighted who lead the world. Great achievements are accomplished in a blessed, warm mental fog.

    Permalink to quote #21
  2. The last thing a woman will consent to discover in a man whom she loves, or on whom she simply depends, is want of courage.

    Permalink to quote #23
  3. Being a woman is a terribly difficult trade since it consists principally of dealings with men.

    Permalink to quote #20

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  3. You survived not to live on your time is short, you have to give a proof of truth

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