As it is so strangely ordained in this world, what is amusing will turn into being gloomy, if you stand too long before it, and then God knows what ideas may not stray into the mind... Why is it that even in moments of unthinking, careless gaiety a different and strange mood comes upon one?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Sustained observation of amusement can shift mood to gloom, revealing hidden thoughts.
- In plain terms
- Looking too long at fun turns it sad and strange.
- What can you take from it?
- Emotions shift when we scrutinize joy too closely.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Why does happiness feel fragile?
- How does time change your mood?
Another view
Not all joy fades with scrutiny; some deepens.
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