Irony: Do not let yourself be governed by it, especially not in unproductive moments. In productive ones try to make use of it as one more means of seizing life.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Use irony sparingly: avoid letting it dominate during unproductive times, but employ it as a tool when you are working productively.
- In plain terms
- Don’t let irony control you, but use it to boost productivity.
- What can you take from it?
- Apply irony strategically, not as a default mindset.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does irony become a hindrance?
- How can you tell when it’s helpful?
Another view
Over‑reliance on irony can become a defense mechanism that hinders genuine engagement.
More from Rainer Maria Rilke
If your daily life seems poor, do not blame it; blame yourself, tell yourself that you are not poet enough to call forth its riches; for to the creator there i…
Permalink to quote #34 No experience has been too unimportant, and the smallest event unfolds like a fate, and fate itself is like a wonderful, wide fabric in which every thread is g…
Permalink to quote #36 I could give you no advice but this: to go into yourself and to explore the depths where your life wells forth.
Permalink to quote #33
Related quotes
I saved a girl from being attacked last night. I controlled myself.
Rodney DangerfieldRodney Dangerfield quote #16 This is The Tonight Show. I can't tell you too much about it, other than the fact that this program is going to go on forever.
Steve AllenSteve Allen quote #1 I have Bright's disease and he has mine.
S. J. PerelmanS. J. Perelman quote #1