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About this quote

What does it mean?
In earlier days life flowed freely like the Thames; modern life is a hurried, fragmented disease with overtaxed minds and restless hearts.
In plain terms
Modern life feels frantic and divided compared to a simpler past.
What can you take from it?
Seek balance amidst the rush of contemporary life.

Where it applies

  • critiquing work culture
  • reflecting on personal pace

Putting it to work

  • schedule regular downtime
  • practice mindfulness

Questions to consider

  • What aspects of modern life stress you most?
  • How can you restore a sense of flow?

Another view

Nostalgia may overlook past hardships.

More from Matthew Arnold

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