Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes of gladness are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks. The flowers which scatter their odours from time to time in the paths of life, grow up without culture from seeds scattered by chance.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Johnson notes pleasure is rarely found when sought; unexpected sparks ignite joy, like chance‑scattered flowers that grow without cultivation.
- In plain terms
- Joy often appears unexpectedly, not through direct pursuit.
- What can you take from it?
- Embrace spontaneity for happiness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How can we balance planning with openness?
- When is pursuit necessary?
Another view
Some goals require deliberate effort to achieve.
More from Samuel Johnson
He is no wise man that will quit a certainty for an uncertainty.
Permalink to quote #73 Merriment is always the effect of a sudden impression. The jest which is expected is already destroyed.
Permalink to quote #75 The joy of life is variety; the tenderest love requires to be renewed by intervals of absence.
Permalink to quote #72
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