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About this quote

What does it mean?
The text suggests that fulfilling wishes can sometimes prolong suffering by keeping hope alive unnecessarily.
In plain terms
Getting what you want can sometimes extend your suffering.
What can you take from it?
Fulfilled wishes can prolong suffering.

Where it applies

  • psychological analysis
  • philosophical discussion

Putting it to work

  • counseling clients
  • writing on desire

Questions to consider

  • Is hope always beneficial?
  • When is fulfillment painful?

Another view

Sometimes fulfillment brings relief rather than prolonged torment.

More from Marguerite Yourcenar

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  2. Peu de bipedes depuis Adam ont merite le nom d'homme.

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  3. Je crois qu'il faut presque toujours un coup de folie pour batir un destin.

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